Posted by linkadge on April 6, 2010, at 18:20:46
In reply to Re: Coffee and depression » tensor, posted by ed_uk2010 on April 6, 2010, at 13:34:39
Coffee (black and strong) seems to keep away many of the dark dark holes I often fall into. It does worsen anxiety a bit, but...
I think some spectulate that the flavanoids have some sort of protective effect. Alternatively, the beta carbolines in coffee (but not tea?) have somewhat potent MAO effects.
I would still argue that caffiene still has some effect on affective disorders. It has neuroprotective effects (which may help prevent) the neurotoxic effects of certain agents which may exascerbate depression. Furthermore it appears to inhibit trek-1 potassium channels. Trek-1 inhibitors like prozac and lamotrigine have antidepressant effects in animal models. Also there is the adenosine inhibiting effects. A2 and A4 receptor antagonists have antidepressant effects.
Tea (green and black) inhibits acetycholinsertase (and perhapse exert a depressogenic effect) on suceptable individuals. Perhaps this is why it is not associated with reduced depression.
poster:linkadge
thread:942439
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20100406/msgs/942543.html