The link between zinc levels and depression is a strong one. Quite often individuals suffering from anxiety or depression show signs of a zinc deficiency.

Post-partum depression (commonly known as the 'baby blues') has also been attributed to low zinc levels, as the mothers Zinc reserves pass to the foetus a day or so before birth.

Zinc is the basis for the babys growth and the formulation of its immune system. However, replacing or increasing the mothers lost zinc after the birth has shown to help conquer depression.

If you do decide to increase your zinc level, then no more than 50mg a day should be obtained from all sources (including those provided in a multivitamin supplement).

Make sure you check with a professional nutrition consultant before undertaking any supplementation.

Foods full of zinc include......

oysters, endive, alfalfa sprouts, seaweed, brown rice, asparagus, mushrooms, turkey and radishes.

Quickly Test your levels....

You can carry out a simple test to check if your zinc levels are adequate by answering the questions below.

Do You....

1. Have white marks on your fingernails?

2. Rarely feel hungry?

3. Have pale skin? .

3. Have stretchmarks around your abdomen or back?

3. Have oily skin, perhaps with some acne?

3. Suffer from frequent colds or flu?

Answer Yes, to two or more of these questions and you may well have a zinc deficiency, in which case you should include some zinc-rich foods in your daily diet.