Just Ask Terry

Terry is happy to provide his opinion on diet and nutrition, supplements and lifestyle choices. This information is for educational purposes only. It is not meant to replace the advice of your physician and is not to be considered medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Should you have any concerns please contact your physician directly.

Q. Hello Terry, “I have been suffering from chronic neck and back pain for 6 years now and I am only 27 years old. I have tried prescription drugs, exercise programs, physical therapy, massage therapy, injections, etc., and nothing seems to work. I had a 10 level spinal fusion 4 years ago due to a 72 degree curve in my spine due to kyphosis and degenerative disc disease. I recently read your article on Acute and Chronic Pain and will be trying those supplements you suggest. Do you also have a recommendation for depression in addition to dealing with pain?? Thank you!” —Holly F., Dublin, CA A. Dear Holly, It is understandable that you would be looking for something to help with depression and mood. You have certainly had more than your share of health challenges. Once you have better control of your chronic pain, you will likely see an improvement in your mood and outlook. Additionally, there are 3 supplements that are an excellent protocol for depression. The first is bioavailable curcumin. Some studies have shown that high bioavailability curcumin can alleviate depression as much as prescription antidepressant medication—without the side effects. Make sure the curcumin you choose has HUMAN studies showing it is absorbed 8 to 10 times better than plain curcumin. Start with a dosage of 750 mg twice a day. The second is a blend of bioactive vitamin B, called pyridoxal-5-phosphate (or P-5-P) 30 mg blended with 100 mg of magnesium glycinate. This combination is excellent for healthy neurological function, and can also exert a mood balancing effect. Take one to two capsules of this formula twice daily. The third is a high quality, standardized St. John’s wort, 900 mg daily. St. John’s wort is every bit as effective for mild to moderate depression as prescription drugs. However, it got a bit of a bat reputation a few years ago when it was discovered that it interacts with a number of prescription drugs. That is because St. John’s wort improves and accelerates the liver’s ability to detoxify substances, which means certain prescription drugs can be flushed out of the body faster. However, if you are not on prescription drugs, this is a wonderful, well-studied and highly effective herb that is very safe to use. Healthy regards! Terry . . . Naturally