Some studies have indicated that there is an adverse relationship between lowering blood cholesterol levels by dieting and medication and emotional health of individual. Increases of depression, suicide and homicide have been linked to dieting. But it may not be hunger pangs that are influencing factor. The quantity and distribution of omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids may play a significant role by influencing serum lipids and altering biophysical and biochemical properties of cell membranes. Epidemiological studies in various countries and in United States in recent years suggest decreased omega-3 fatty acid consumption correlates with increasing rates of depression. This is consistent with established relationship between coronary artery disease and depression. Omega-3 deficiency may also be related to depression associated with alcoholism, post-partum depression and multiple sclerosis.

What about attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)? It has become an epidemic in our time resulting in millions of children being placed on medication. In addition to fact that we are destroying attention spans of kids by placing them in front of televisions and computers instead of good books, there may be dietary influences as well.

A 1995 study involved 96 boys in Indiana schools, 53 of which had been diagnosed with ADHD. Dietary intake statistics of essential fatty acids were established based on 3-day surveys of each boy. There were no significant differences between ADHD boys and others in relation to consumption of protein, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals. An additional 22 measurements were taken designed to establish lipid and fatty acid levels in each group.

It was found that ADHD group possessed significantly lower amounts of specific lipid fatty acids in plasma, and lower concentrations of total fatty acids in red blood cells than did non-ADHD group. Since omega-3 is primary polyunsaturated fatty acid found in retina and cerebral cortex it was postulated that low levels of omega-3 might negatively affect proper brain function and therefore ability to concentrate. What was not determined was whether omega-3 deficiencies were due to inadequate intakes of fatty acids or individual ability to metabolize them. In either case, however, higher intakes of omega-3 through eating fish or taking fish oil supplements could help to raise omega-3 levels and therefore help counteract to effects of ADHD.

http://www.optimal-heart-health.com/fishoils.html

The bad news is that there are certain foods you have to steer clear of (although its only for first 2 weeks) - cut out all bread, rice, potatoes, pasta, baked goods, fruit, candy, cake, cookies, ice cream, or sugar. Also banned are beer and all other kinds of alcohol. Sounds tough? It's only for 2 weeks! A tiny price to pay for reaching your ideal weight, and a life of health!

Now we move on to Phase 2. The good news about this phase is that you can start to re-introduce some of 'banned' foods, while still losing between 1 and 2 pounds per week. You continue this phase until you reach your target weight - weight you ideal want to be at.

This phase lasts as long as it takes you to lose your ideal weight, so duration depends on you - where you are starting from, how well you follow diet, and how your body reacts. You should be entering this phase in a good frame of mind - after all, you should already be up to 14 pounds lighter! You may also find that your old cravings for unhealthy food have subsided, or reduced considerably, making it much easier in this phase. So what are keys to this phase? Surprisingly, it's NOT about eating less, its about cutting out those foods that start cravings and store body fat in first place. You CAN add some 'goodies' back in, but in moderation. You can have chocolate cake, but don't eat it every day. Make it a treat, as it should be. Weight loss in this phase tends to be between 1 and 2 pounds a week - maximum doctors recommend to maintain health, and keep weight off.

After that, you move on to Phase 3, which is maintenance phase, and lasts for ever - you maintain your ideal weight while eating a healthy and balanced diet. If weight begins to rise again, you return to Phase 1 and repeat. You should have changed your entire outlook on food by now, and want to eat a natural healthy diet without having to use any willpower at all. You will feel healthier, and will be at less risk of weight-related illnesses, such as heart problems, and diabetes.

For a list of South Beach Diet 'Good' Foods and 'Bad' foods, consult www.supadiet.com ! Good luck with it!