We feed our gut microbes, and they are significantly altered in anorexia nervosa.

Many biological changes occur in this condition, including changes in short-chain fatty acids, tryptophan and cytokines.  These changes impact mood, anxiety and cognitive function.

While changes in gut microbes are not the cause of anorexia nervosa, they result in the emergence of many psychological symptoms.

What are obsessions?

What are compulsions?

How common is OCD?

What are the treatment options for the patient with OCD?

Osteoporosis occurs when bones become brittle and are at risk of breaking.  Hip fractures are a common occurrence in severe osteoporosis.

All races are at risk of osteoporosis, and post-menopausal women are at particular risk.

Clinical depression is a risk factor for osteoporosis.  High levels of cortisol, which occur in depression, weaken bones.  Osteocalcin, necessary for new bone formation, is reduced in depression.  

The biology of depression increases the risk of osteoporosis.  Countering these effects with increased intake of vitamin D and calcium, along with weight-bearing exercise, is necessary for preventing osteoporosis.

Depression significantly increases the risk of heart disease.

How?

Probably by increasing inflammatory molecules in the bloodstream, increasing cortisol and making platelets more adhesive.

It is imperative that we treat depression effectively, either by physical means, psychological means or a combination.   

Untreated depression has major physical implications.

The 1950s were the golden age of psychiatric drug development.  Along came antipsychotics and antidepressants.

Are the newer drugs better than the older drugs in terms of efficacy?  The answer unquestionably is no.   They are no more effective but have different side effects.

Is there still a role for old drugs?  Yes, there is.

Should benzodiazepines be used to treat anxiety or sleep disturbance?  Not always, but for many people, yes.

What are psychedelics?

In what areas of psychiatry are psychedelics being developed?

Why do conventional journals publish studies with low numbers of patients?

Will psychedelics ever reach the market?

Why do we not have a psychobiotic as an alternative to antidepressants?

Why are pharmaceutical companies ignoring this area?

What are the problems with studies of psychobiotics conducted to date?

Are there alternatives to Bifidobacteria and Lactobacilli as psychobiotics?

Advice to consumers re psychobiotic supplements.

What is bipolar disorder?

How common is the condition?

What is the course of the disorder?

How is bipolar disorder treated?

What is schizophrenia?

What causes the disorder?

How is it treated?

What is the outcome of patients diagnosed with schizophrenia?

What are Psychobiotics, and why are they important?

What types of bacteria have potential psychobiotic activity?

How do Psychobiotics work?

What conditions may benefit from Psychobiotics?