Many factors contribute to depression. For example, too much leisure frequently causes depression; also jealousy, being unappreciated, lack of genuine religion, overwork, anticipating future wants, and stimulating amusement. To avoid depression, follow these suggestions:

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1. Maintain strict regularity for meals. Do not eat or drink between meals. Omit all evening food, retiring to bed only after digestion is complete.

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2. Guard against overeating or undereating. Depression can settle on the mind after eating too much or too little food.

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3. Maintain a “calming diet.” Avoid stimulating or irritating foods such as hot pepper, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, vinegar, and anything made with vinegar such as pickles, mayonnaise, ketchup, or mustard.

Also avoid foods that have been through a fermenting, putrefying, or rotting phase in processing, such as sauerkraut, cheese, soy sauce, and similar products; baking soda and baking powder products; caffeine, Theobromine (from coffee, tea, colas, and chocolate), and nicotine.

Limit all concentrated foods, including wheat germ, margarine, dried skim milk, and all animal products. Eat plenty of raw fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and legumes. Eat nuts only sparingly.

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4. Eliminate sugar, honey, dried or very sweet fruits and vegetables, and coconut, while the depression lasts.

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5. Eat freely of foods that are high in B-vitamins, such as greens, legumes, and whole grains, since B-vitamins are called “good disposition vitamins.”

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6. Stimulate the skin with a stiff brush daily before a cool shower. Spray cold water over adrenal areas of the back at the end of each bath or shower.

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7. Maintain regularity in all things including digestion, bed times, and exercise.

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8. Bathe in the sun daily, weather permitting.

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9. Do deep breathing exercises.

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10. When walking, keep a brisk pace. Also, keep your head up, face cheerful, breathing correct, and posture good. Walk in nature an hour or more each day.

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11. Undertake a graduated exercise program. For example, some find that gardening with bare feet and hands is helpful.

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12. Check your health: 
   a) Check the length of time your intestinal tract requires to process 8-10 charcoal tablets into your stool
   b) Undergo laboratory work (PBI, blood sugar, Hct, T-4)

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13. Control the amount and goal of your speech. For example don't talk too much, or too little, and only about cheerful subjects. Don't give in to gossip or complaining.

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14. Develop a daily program of Bible study and prayer. Learn to control your thoughts, and dwell on heavenly themes.