Vitamin B-12 and other B vitamins play a role in producing brain chemicals that affect mood and other brain functions. Low levels of B-12 and other B vitamins such as vitamin B-6 and folate may be linked to depression.
Some of the best vitamins for depression include vitamin D, iron, B9 (folate), calcium, vitamin C, and vitamins B12 and B3. Keep reading to learn more about vitamins that help with depression so you can make informed decisions about how best to treat your symptoms of depression.
Vitamins B9 and B12 are both thought to treat symptoms of anxiety. Folic acid has many uses in the body, and B9 deficiency has been linked to higher levels of anxiety and depression. When taken in conjunction with B12, these B super-vitamins help metabolize serotonin, which is important for mood regulation.
2020 research suggests that vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, may be helpful in improving mood and reducing symptoms of depression in some people. It's well-known that a deficiency in vitamin B12 can result in neurological and psychiatric problems, including depression, irritability, and memory loss.
The association between magnesium and depression has been observed in several studies. Some studies have found promising effects of magnesium supplementation in the treatment of depression. A 2017 study found that magnesium supplements improved symptoms of depression in adults.
To avoid vitamin D deficiency and lower your risk of developing depression aim to get the recommended dietary allowance of vitamin D: 15 micrograms per day for teenagers and adults and 20 micrograms of vitamin D daily for people over age 70 according to the USDA.
Once you begin treating your vitamin B12 deficiency, it can take up to six to 12 months to fully recover. It is also common to not experience any improvement during the first few months of treatment. If you can, it's a good idea to address what's causing the deficiency.
B12 acts as a cofactor in synthesis of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine, thus B12 deficiency affects mood, emotions and sleeping and can lead to psychiatric disorders.
According to the study's findings, the B12 group experienced a minor improvement in anxiety and depression when compared to the placebo group. Above all, Vitamin B6 produced a statistically significant difference.
Try walking, playing a team sport or pumping iron at the gym. Diet also plays an important role in maintaining emotional health. Be sure to eat a diet rich in whole grains, lean meats, vegetables, fruits, beans and nuts. Interacting with others can also help boost a person's mood.
B12 and folate (B9) are important vitamins for maintaining a healthy nervous system. Vitamin B12 and folate are needed for producing norepinephrine, serotonin, and dopamine. Norepinephrine and serotonin are neurotransmitters in the brain which influence mental behavioral patterns and moods.
Doctors often start by prescribing an SSRI. These drugs are considered safer and generally cause fewer bothersome side effects than other types of antidepressants. SSRIs include citalopram (Celexa), escitalopram (Lexapro), fluoxetine (Prozac), paroxetine (Paxil, Pexeva), sertraline (Zoloft) and vilazodone (Viibryd).
Very high daily doses of vitamin B12, ranging between 1000 and 2000 mcg, may effectively restore B12 levels within the body and positively impact depression symptoms. Even doses as low as 100 mcg are potent enough to positively impact cognition in adults with depressive symptoms.
People with vitamin B12 deficiency can have neurological symptoms and/or damage without anemia (lack of red blood cells). General physical symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency can include: Feeling very tired or weak. Experiencing nausea, vomiting or diarrhea.
numbness. muscle weakness. psychological problems, which can range from mild depression or anxiety, to confusion and dementia. problems with balance and coordination.
Nervous System Reactions
After getting a vitamin B12 injection some people may experience a disturbance to the nervous system. These symptoms may include dizziness, difficulty walking normally, nervousness, anxiety, weakness and uncoordinated movements.
A lack of B12 can mess with your mental health and eventually can lead to depression or anxiety. One theory why: Low B12 may affect the production of mood-regulating neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, the same brain chemicals impacted in depression that's not related to B12.
Several studies have shown that people experiencing anxiety have lower vitamin B12 levels. One 2000 study found that men with vitamin B12 deficiency who recently lost a loved one reported higher levels of anxiety and depression (2).
“Adding an over-the-counter vitamin D supplement can make improvements in just three to four months time.
Vitamin B deficiency (B1, B6, B7, B12, B complex) can contribute to depression, anxiety, and mood swings. It is associated with a disruption in the nervous system as well as the circulatory system. B12/B9, or folate, is at the forefront of mood management.