Home » Misc » Can b vitamins help with depression

Can b vitamins help with depression


Vitamin B12 Supplementation: Preventing Onset and Improving Prognosis of Depression

Cureus. 2020 Oct; 12(10): e11169.

Published online 2020 Oct 26. doi: 10.7759/cureus.11169

Monitoring Editor: Alexander Muacevic and John R Adler

,1,2,1,1 and 2

Author information Article notes Copyright and License information Disclaimer

Depression is a common mental health condition occurring across all ages, genders, and populations and is almost always multifaceted. It can manifest as a form of metabolic disorder, endocrine disorder, cardiovascular diseases, inflammatory disorders, deficiencies, or neurodegenerative disorders. Although there have been various treatment options available for the treatment of depression, it is still a sizable global health concern requiring more attention. This review article was produced by researching data and studies to prove a relationship between Vitamin B12 and depression. Numerous studies were reviewed, and based on these studies, it was concluded that supplementation of Vitamin B12 early enough can delay the onset of depression and improve the effect of anti-depressants when used in conjunction with Vitamin B12. Although other vitamins like Vitamin B6 and folate are known to have an impact on depression, we have primarily focused on Vitamin B12 in an attempt to offer the providers a foundation to address this concern with their patients prone to depression or have had a major depressive episode in their life.

Keywords: serum vitamin b12, depression prevention, hyperhomocysteinemia, neuro-psychiatric

Over 264 million individuals suffer from depression across the world. Depression is one of the most commonly occurring mental health disorders occurring in adults and children [1]. The World Health Organization reported depression as one of the leading causes of disability worldwide [2].

The American Academy of Pediatrics' most recent guidelines states that depression screening is recommended to begin at as low as 12 years of age. It is a well-known fact that depression can become a serious medical condition, if long-lasting, and can affect the quality of life, reduce overall productivity, and lead to extreme thoughts known as suicidal ideation [1]. The most known causes of depression are external factors like abuse, death or loss, heredity, and medications. Over 17.3 million US adults, about 7.1% of the total population, have suffered from a minimum of one major depressive episode in their life. Figure shows the statistical data from 2017 outlining the prevalence of depression among adults in the United States.

Open in a separate window

Prevalence of Major Depressive Episodes Among US Adults

SAMHSA: Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration; NH/OPI: Native Hawaiian/Other Pacific Islander; AI/AN: American Indian/Alaska Native

Depression is more prevalent in women and young adults aged 18-25 years of age [3], most likely reported due to emotional or psychological stress. However, the completion of suicide attempts is more among men than women. 

Vitamin B12 is a water-soluble vitamin synthesized by the bacteria present in the human body. It is predominantly acquired by the intake of meat products, and thus individuals with a vegetarian or vegan diet tend to be naturally deficient. Deficiency of this particular vitamin can lead to fatigue, weakness, constipation, balance issues, mental fogginess, peripheral tingling, depression, and cognitive issues [4,5].

Numerous studies are being performed to determine the relationship between Vitamin B12 and depression, and if supplementation of Vitamin B12 can slow the progression of depression or prevent it. So far, there has not been concrete evidence that shows the positive effects of Vitamin B12 supplementation in patients with or prone to depression. However, some studies have shown positive effects on patients with depression when supplementation of Vitamin B12 is implemented. Some clinical studies have shown that higher Vitamin B12 levels in the body resulted in better outcomes in patients suffering from depressive and other mental health disorders [6], whereas some studies have also stated that adolescents with borderline levels of serum Vitamin B12 levels develop cognitive changes requiring treatment [7].

Depression is a lifelong battle for the majority of the population across the world. Especially with the current situation in the world and the COVID-19 pandemic associated with lockdowns, loss of jobs, housing, and immigration statuses, the incidence of depression and other mental health disorders has significantly increased among children, adolescents, and adults, not being limited to a specific age group. This paper aims to find the effects of Vitamin B12 on depression with the help of other reviewed articles, in an attempt to allow providers to make evidence-based decisions to prevent and manage depression by merely supplementing individuals with Vitamin B12.

Our review focuses on the effects of Vitamin B12 supplementation at the onset or during the prognosis of depression. A total of 35 studies and articles were reviewed for this review [1-35]. We used PubMed and Google Scholar as our main databases to identify, screen, and choose the relevant articles. We chose the studies that were relevant to the topic and were published in English. We did not include gray literature or unpublished studies.

Vitamin B12 and hyperhomocysteinemia

Micronutrients are known to affect the normal structure and functions of the brain. For this paper, we will be focusing on one specific micronutrient - Vitamin B12. Cyanocobalamin, also known as Vitamin B12, is one of the most important water-soluble vitamins. The primary functions of Vitamin B12 are appropriate red blood cell formation, neurological functioning, and DNA synthesis [8]. Deficiency of Vitamin B12 can result in hematological changes, neurological and psychiatric problems, which can manifest as irritability, changes in personality, depression, and memory loss [9]. It is also known to worsen depression by excitotoxic reactions caused by the accumulation of homocysteine [10].

Vitamin B12 deficiency is reportedly known to cause mental disturbances in numerous individuals. However, there is little evidence to show the correlation between psychosis and Vitamin B12. Cobalamin is one of the essential elements for monoamine neurotransmitter synthesis in the brain. A study published in 2011 in the Academy of Psychosomatic Medicine included supplementation of Vitamin B12 and folate, which resulted in improved cognitive functioning among patients participating in the study. A borderline Vitamin B12 level of 75-95 pg/mL, as well as up to a normal level of 307 pg/mL, is known to cause neuropsychiatric symptoms in patients, and such symptoms may start manifesting even with such borderline deficiencies or low normal levels of Vitamin B12. The study does dispute if the effects were of the Vitamin B12 supplementation or anti-depressant medications; however, it concludes that supplementation did increase the overall response to the anti-depressants [11].

Hyperhomocysteinemia

Higher homocysteine levels are associated with a phenomenon called "methionine loading." A deficiency of Vitamin B12 along with B6 and folate usually prevents the conversion of homocysteine to methionine, increasing the levels of homocysteine. Hyperhomocysteinemia can also occur in patients with renal disorders or genetic alterations of methyl-tetrahydro-folate reductase or cystathionine beta-synthetase, which are required for the metabolism of homocysteine [12,13]. Higher levels of homocysteine affect the DNA formation and overall turnover of red blood cells (RBCs), causing the development of megaloblastic or pernicious anemia, ultimately affecting the cognitive ability and mood of the patient [14-17]. Figure gives an overview of the various neurochemical pathways affected by Vitamin B12 levels, which ultimately leads to some form of depressive disorder or episode.

Open in a separate window

Neurochemical Pathways Affected by Vitamin B12 Levels

Vitamin B12 is interdependent with other micronutrients, mainly Vitamin B6 and folate. This interdependence affects multiple neuronal pathways that are not directly controlled by Vitamin B12. Neurotransmitters are required to conduct the signals from one neuron to another, with the help of pre- and post-synaptic junctions. The malfunctioning of any of these pathways can lead to depression [4]. Lower Vitamin B12 levels are also known to increase the risk of cognitive decline, Alzheimer's disease, and dementia. According to Vogiatzoglou et al., higher Vitamin B12 levels have proven to protect patients against brain atrophy [18].

Pathophysiology of depression

Over a decade ago, depression was commonly seen in adult and elderly patients but had become far more common among the younger population. According to the Journal of Psychological Medicine, the rates of depression have increased drastically among children as young as 12 years and older.

Depression, once diagnosed, is clinically treated with anti-depressants and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). In patients where the anti-depressant regimen is not eliciting a response, an additional drug from a different pharmaceutical group has proved to have a significant effect [19,20]. However, long-term and extensive pharmacotherapy are almost always associated with the extent of undesirable effects on the patient like the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events, decline in cognitive functioning over time, behavioral changes including but not limited to sexual problems, and feeling of "emotional numbness. " The B vitamins are crucial particulates of the 1-carbon metabolism wherein 5-methyltetrahydrofolate and methylcobalamin help convert homocysteine to methionine, which in turn forms S-adenosylmethionine (SAM), which is the essential methyl donor required for the production of monoamine neurotransmitters, phospholipids, and nucleotides [21].

A study performed in 2010 by Skarupski et al. included a sample US population of 35,053 older adults, and the results of this study stated that higher intakes of Vitamin B12 and B6 were associated with a lower risk of developing depressive symptoms by an average of 7.2 years [23]. According to Hutto, cobalamin and folate are components of the synthesis of monoamine neurotransmitters, which may lead to psychotic behavior by a rise in Bh5 (tetrahydrobiopterin) production [24]. Moorthy et al. published an article in the Journal of Nutrition in 2010, which discussed the C677T polymorphism of the methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) gene in various ethnic groups. The study showed lesser scores on the Mini-Mental Status Exam (MMSE) and higher depression scores among patients with lower plasma levels of Vitamin B12 [25].

Daily supplementation of oral Vitamin B12 (100 mcg) and folic acid (400 mcg) has been shown to increase cognitive function in a randomized controlled trial performed by Walker et al. in 2012 [26]. They proposed two theories by which this could occur: reduced homocysteine levels and lowered vascular and metabolic risk factors occurring due to supplementation with Vitamin B12 and folic acid [26]. Another study performed in 2012, specifically among the Iranian population with major depressive disorders, also indicated lower plasma concentrations of Vitamin B12 among the Tabrizian patients who had depressive symptoms [27]. 

Melancholic depressive symptoms were more relatively associated with lower plasma Vitamin B12 levels. One such study reviewed concluded that Vitamin B12 deficiency played an important role in the pathogenesis of depressive symptoms [28]. A randomized controlled trial performed in 2013 among the Pakistani population attempted to identify the coexistence of depression and Vitamin B12 deficiency. This study reported that 22% of the sample depressed population had associated low Vitamin B12 levels to constitute a deficiency, 36% had low normal Vitamin B12 levels, and 42% of the sample population had normal serum B12 levels [29]. Vitamin B12, in combination with folic acid, is known to reduce the levels of homocysteine, thereby reducing the toxic effects and thus improving the effect of anti-depressants by increasing the effectiveness of anti-depressants S-adenosylmethionine (SAMe) [30]. A study performed among the Indian population in 2017 demonstrated that Vitamin B12-deficient individuals, mostly vegetarians, were more prone to developing neurological problems [31]. Figure  illustrates the effects of Vitamin B12 deficiency on depression. 

Open in a separate window

Pathophysiology of Depression

The total cyanocobalamin and methylcobalamin levels in patients with autism and schizophrenia were reported to be lower as compared to the age-matched control subjects. Although the association with the levels and depression was not performed, the study analyzed brain samples [22]. It concluded Vitamin B12-dependent methylation reactions in the brain played a crucial role in the presentation of neurological symptoms and disorders [22]. A cross-sectional study was performed in 2018 to understand the association between vitamins and depression to gather data more based explicitly on sex-specific criteria; evidently, females were identified to be more at risk as compared to men and had coinciding lower serum Vitamin B12 levels [32]. Low normal serum Vitamin B12 is also posing a risk to pregnant women and makes them more prone to develop depressive symptoms. According to a secondary analysis of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey and a reported Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) score of 10 or more among the subjects, pregnant women were reported to be 3.82 times more predisposed to developing depression [33].

One-carbon metabolism has been extensively linked with psychiatric disorders among numerous studies. One such recent study published in 2020 comprised of 89 patients, mainly children and adolescents, and included a patient group that was already diagnosed with depression and a control group. They were subsequently tested for serum levels of Vitamin B12, homocysteine, and Vitamin D. The study utilized correlation analysis and showed a negative relationship between the severity of depressive symptoms and Vitamin B12, and associated hyperhomocysteinemia, concluding that low normal levels or deficiency of Vitamin B12 can become a significant contributing factor toward depression [34]. Case-control studies performed have yielded similar results; however, the sample population has been limited, which necessitates studies comprising larger population groups. Patients diagnosed with depression are highly likely to be non-compliant, thus suggesting better ways of managing and overcoming the non-compliant behavior, which also goes hand in hand with improper dietary intake of essential nutrients. Khosravi et al. performed a case-control study to identify the correlation between increased and decreased intake of Vitamin B12 and folate with depression and its severity. An inversely proportional relationship was established between Vitamin B12 and folate levels and depression [35]. Table gives a snapshot of the studies reviewed for this article along with their results. 

Table 1

Effects of Vitamin B12 on Depressive Symptoms

SSRI: Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor

AuthorYear of PublicationPurpose of the StudyResults/Conclusion
Skarupski et al. [23]2010To determine if Vitamin B12 or B6 intake affected the onset of depressive symptomsHigher intakes of both Vitamins B12 and B6 reduced depressive symptoms over time.
Walker et al. [26]2012To identify if folic acid and Vitamin B12 supplementation prevented cognitive declineLong-term supplementation improved cognitive functioning
Gargari et al. [27]2012To assess nutritional status in patients with major depressive disordersVitamin B12 and folate levels were markedly lower among identified patients
Seppälä et al. [28]2013To identify a relationship between Vitamin B12 levels and depressive symptomsVitamin B12 levels were reported to be correlated with melancholic depressive symptoms more than non-melancholic.
Syed et al.  [29]2013To compare the response of SSRI monotherapy vs. B12 augmentation in patients with depressionSupplementation of Vitamin B12 along with anti-depressant therapy greatly improved depressive symptoms.
Peppard et al. [33]2019To identify the risk of depression in pregnant womenThe study stated that women during the antenatal period with low normal Vitamin B12 levels were 3.82 times more prone to develop depression.

Open in a separate window

Among the numerous articles reviewed for this topic, the majority of them proposed that Vitamin B12 levels are related to the severity of depression. Although this topic lacks tangible and sizable data to prove the same, healthcare providers need to take into consideration the studies reviewed in this paper and utilize them to test the effects of Vitamin B12 supplementation in patients with neuropsychiatric disorders.

Limitations

The limitations of this topic are that the studies that have been reviewed for this paper have had relatively smaller sample population sizes. There is still a need for more research with a larger sample size to find more concrete evidence of the positive effects of Vitamin B12 on depression.

In this article, we reviewed over 30 to 40 published articles and studies to understand the correlation between the supplementation of Vitamin B12 and the prognosis of depression. Based on the reviewed studies, it was found that although there is no concrete evidence showing positive effects of Vitamin B12 on depression or depressive symptoms, the lower levels of Vitamin B12 in the body are associated with a higher risk of developing depression. Routine testing for plasma Vitamin B12 levels can be recommended for patients across the board beginning at the adolescent age to prevent the population from developing depression or other forms of cognitive under-functioning, which may lead to depression. Low normal levels of Vitamin B12 should be recommended to be evaluated for symptoms of Vitamin B12 deficiency, including any neurological manifestations, as these symptoms can present even when the levels are within a normal range. However, additional studies with larger population groups should be done to formulate an evidence-based criterion for providers to adapt across the world.

The content published in Cureus is the result of clinical experience and/or research by independent individuals or organizations. Cureus is not responsible for the scientific accuracy or reliability of data or conclusions published herein. All content published within Cureus is intended only for educational, research and reference purposes. Additionally, articles published within Cureus should not be deemed a suitable substitute for the advice of a qualified health care professional. Do not disregard or avoid professional medical advice due to content published within Cureus.

The authors have declared that no competing interests exist.

1. Depression. [Sep;2020 ];https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/depression 2020

2. Depression in the United States household population, 2005-2006. [Sep;2020 ];Pratt L, Brody D. https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/data/databriefs/db07.pdf 2008

3. Major depression. [Sep;2020 ];https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/major-depression.shtml 2017

4. The effects of vitamin B in depression. Mikkelsen K, Stojanovska L, Apostolopoulos V. Curr Med Chem. 2016;23:4317–4337. [PubMed] [Google Scholar]

5. The prevalence of cobalamin deficiency among vegetarians assessed by serum vitamin B12: a review of literature. Pawlak R, Lester SE, Babatunde T. Eur J Clin Nutr. 2014;68:541–548. [PubMed] [Google Scholar]

6. High vitamin B12 level and good treatment outcome may be associated in major depressive disorder. Hintikka J, Tolmunen T, Tanskanen A, Viinamäki H. BMC Psychiatry. 2003;3:17. [PMC free article] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]

7. Signs of impaired cognitive function in adolescents with marginal cobalamin status. Louwman MW, van Dusseldorp M, van de Vijver FJ, et al. Am J Clin Nutr. 2000;72:762–769. [PubMed] [Google Scholar]

8. Folate and vitamin B-12 status in relation to anemia, macrocytosis, and cognitive impairment in older Americans in the age of folic acid fortification. Morris MS, Jacques PF, Rosenberg IH, Selhub J. Am J Clin Nutr. 2007;85:193–200. [PMC free article] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]

9. Vitamin B12 deficiency. Oh R, Brown DL. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12643357/ Am Fam Physician. 2003;67:979–986. [PubMed] [Google Scholar]

10. Clinical spectrum and diagnosis of cobalamin deficiency. Stabler SP, Allen RH, Savage DG, Lindenbaum J. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/2393714/ Blood. 1990;76:871–881. [PubMed] [Google Scholar]

11. Acute psychotic depression as a sole manifestation of vitamin B12 deficiency. Bar-Shai M, Gott D, Marmor S. Psychosomatics. 2011;52:384–386. [PubMed] [Google Scholar]

12. Homocysteine, renal function, and risk of cardiovascular disease. Clarke R, Lewington S, Landray M. Kidney Int Suppl. 2003;63:131. [PubMed] [Google Scholar]

13. The kidney and homocysteine metabolism. Friedman AN, Bostom AG, Selhub J, Levey AS, Rosenberg IH. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11562419/ J Am Soc Nephrol. 2001;12:2181–2189. [PubMed] [Google Scholar]

14. Folic acid with or without vitamin B12 for cognition and dementia. Malouf M, Grimley EJ, Areosa SA. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2003 [PubMed] [Google Scholar]

15. Folate, vitamin B12 and vitamin B6 and one carbon metabolism. Selhub J. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11813080/ J Nutr Health Aging. 2002;6:39–42. [PubMed] [Google Scholar]

16. Vitamin B6, B12, and folic acid supplementation and cognitive function: a systematic review of randomized trials. Balk EM, Raman G, Tatsioni A, Chung M, Lau J, Rosenberg IH. Arch Intern Med. 2007;167:21–30. [PubMed] [Google Scholar]

17. Homocysteine and folate metabolism in depression. Bottiglieri T. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry. 2005;29:1103–1112. [PubMed] [Google Scholar]

18. Vitamin B12 status and rate of brain volume loss in community-dwelling elderly. Vogiatzoglou A, Refsum H, Johnston C, et al. Neurology. 2008;71:826–832. [PubMed] [Google Scholar]

19. Pharmacological augmentation in unipolar depression: a guide to the guidelines [IN PRESS] Taylor RW, Marwood L, Oprea E, et al. Int J Neuropsychopharmacol. 2020 [PMC free article] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]

20. Efficacy of adding nutritional supplements in unipolar depression: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Schefft C, Kilarski LL, Bschor T, Köhler S. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol. 2017;27:1090–1109. [PubMed] [Google Scholar]

21. B-vitamins in relation to depression in older adults over 60 years of age: the Trinity Ulster Department of Agriculture (TUDA) Cohort Study. Moore K, Hughes CF, Hoey L, et al. J Am Med Dir Assoc. 2019;20:551–557. [PubMed] [Google Scholar]

22. Decreased brain levels of vitamin B12 in aging, autism and schizophrenia. Zhang Y, Hodgson NW, Trivedi MS, et al. PLoS One. 2016;11:146797. [PMC free article] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]

23. Longitudinal association of vitamin B-6, folate, and vitamin B-12 with depressive symptoms among older adults over time. Skarupski KA, Tangney C, Li H, Ouyang B, Evans DA, Morris MC. Am J Clin Nutr. 2010;92:330–335. [PMC free article] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]

24. Folate and cobalamin in psychiatric illness. Hutto BR. Compr Psychiatry. 1997;38:305–314. [PubMed] [Google Scholar]

25. Status of vitamins B-12 and B-6 but not of folate, homocysteine, and the methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase C677T polymorphism are associated with impaired cognition and depression in adults. Moorthy D, Peter I, Scott TM, et al. J Nutr. 2012;142:1554–1560. [PMC free article] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]

26. Oral folic acid and vitamin B-12 supplementation to prevent cognitive decline in community-dwelling older adults with depressive symptoms--the Beyond Ageing Project: a randomized controlled trial. Walker JG, Batterham PJ, Mackinnon AJ, et al. Am J Clin Nutr. 2012;95:194–203. [PubMed] [Google Scholar]

27. Nutritional status in patients with major depressive disorders: a pilot study in Tabriz, Iran. Gargari BP, Saboktakin M, Mahboob S, Pourafkari N. Health Promot Perspect. 2012;28:145–152. [PMC free article] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]

28. Association between vitamin b12 levels and melancholic depressive symptoms: a Finnish population-based study. Seppälä J, Koponen H, Kautiainen H, et al. BMC Psychiatry. 2013;13:145. [PMC free article] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]

29. Vitamin B12 supplementation in treating major depressive disorder: a randomized controlled trial. Syed EU, Wasay M, Awan S. Open Neurol J. 2013;7:44–48. [PMC free article] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]

30. The role of nutrients in protecting mitochondrial function and neurotransmitter signaling: implications for the treatment of depression, PTSD, and suicidal behaviors. Du J, Zhu M, Bao H, et al. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr. 2016;56:2560–2578. [PMC free article] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]

31. Neuropsychiatric and neurological problems among vitamin B12 deficient young vegetarians. Kapoor A, Baig M, Tunio SA, Memon AS, Karmani H. Neurosciences (Riyadh) 2017;22:228–232. [PMC free article] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]

32. Association between serum vitamin levels and depression in US adults 20 years or older based on national health and nutrition examination survey 2005-2006. Huang X, Fan Y, Han X, et al. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2018;32:1215. [PMC free article] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]

33. Risk of depression in pregnant women with low-normal serum vitamin B12. Peppard L, Oh KM, Gallo S, Milligan R. Res Nurs Health. 2019;42:264–272. [PubMed] [Google Scholar]

34. The relationship of severity of depression with homocysteine, folate, vitamin B12, and vitamin D levels in children and adolescents [IN PRESS] Esnafoglu E, Ozturan DD. Child Adolesc Ment Health. 2020 [PubMed] [Google Scholar]

35. The relationship between dietary patterns and depression mediated by serum levels of folate and vitamin B12. Khosravi M, Sotoudeh G, Amini M, Raisi F, Mansoori A, Hosseinzadeh M. BMC Psychiatry. 2020;20:63. [PMC free article] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]

The Effects of Vitamin B in Depression

Review

. 2016;23(38):4317-4337.

doi: 10.2174/0929867323666160920110810.

Kathleen Mikkelsen, Lily Stojanovska, Vasso Apostolopoulos  1

Affiliations

Affiliation

  • 1 Centre for Chronic Disease, College of Health and Biomedicine, Victoria University, Melbourne, VIC Australia.
  • PMID: 27655070
  • DOI: 10. 2174/0929867323666160920110810

Review

Kathleen Mikkelsen et al. Curr Med Chem. 2016.

. 2016;23(38):4317-4337.

doi: 10.2174/0929867323666160920110810.

Authors

Kathleen Mikkelsen, Lily Stojanovska, Vasso Apostolopoulos  1

Affiliation

  • 1 Centre for Chronic Disease, College of Health and Biomedicine, Victoria University, Melbourne, VIC Australia.
  • PMID: 27655070
  • DOI: 10. 2174/0929867323666160920110810

Abstract

Vitamins are dietary components which are necessary for life. They play a major role in health and their deficiency may be linked to symptoms of psychiatric disorders. B vitamins are required for proper functioning of the methylation cycle, monoamine oxidase production, DNA synthesis and the repair and maintenance of phospholipids. Vitamin B deficiency could influence memory function, cognitive impairment and dementia. In particular, vitamins B1, B3, B6, B9 and B12 are essential for neuronal function and deficiencies have been linked to depression. We discuss the causes of depression and the neurochemical pathways in depression. In particular, we provide evidence that vitamin B contributes to the complexity of depressive symptoms.

Similar articles

  • Is there a Link between Vitamin B and Multiple Sclerosis?

    Nemazannikova N, Mikkelsen K, Stojanovska L, Blatch GL, Apostolopoulos V. Nemazannikova N, et al. Med Chem. 2018 Feb 6;14(2):170-180. doi: 10.2174/1573406413666170906123857. Med Chem. 2018. PMID: 28875857 Review.

  • Effects of nutrients (in food) on the structure and function of the nervous system: update on dietary requirements for brain. Part 1: micronutrients.

    Bourre JM. Bourre JM. J Nutr Health Aging. 2006 Sep-Oct;10(5):377-85. J Nutr Health Aging. 2006. PMID: 17066209 Review.

  • Plasma choline concentration varies with different dietary levels of vitamins B6, B12 and folic acid in rats maintained on choline-adequate diets.

    van Wijk N, Watkins CJ, Böhlke M, Maher TJ, Hageman RJ, Kamphuis PJ, Broersen LM, Wurtman RJ. van Wijk N, et al. Br J Nutr. 2012 May;107(10):1408-12. doi: 10.1017/S0007114511004570. Epub 2011 Sep 15. Br J Nutr. 2012. PMID: 21917195

  • Thoughts on B-vitamins and dementia.

    Morris MC, Schneider JA, Tangney CC. Morris MC, et al. J Alzheimers Dis. 2006 Aug;9(4):429-33. doi: 10.3233/jad-2006-9409. J Alzheimers Dis. 2006. PMID: 16917152 Free PMC article. Review.

  • B vitamins and berries and age-related neurodegenerative disorders.

    Balk E, Chung M, Raman G, Tatsioni A, Chew P, Ip S, DeVine D, Lau J. Balk E, et al. Evid Rep Technol Assess (Full Rep). 2006 Apr;(134):1-161. Evid Rep Technol Assess (Full Rep). 2006. PMID: 17628125 Free PMC article. Review.

See all similar articles

Cited by

  • Gut-Brain Axis: Insights from Hippocampal Neurogenesis and Brain Tumor Development in a Mouse Model of Experimental Colitis Induced by Dextran Sodium Sulfate.

    Vitali R, Prioreschi C, Lorenzo Rebenaque L, Colantoni E, Giovannini D, Frusciante S, Diretto G, Marco-Jiménez F, Mancuso M, Casciati A, Pazzaglia S. Vitali R, et al. Int J Mol Sci. 2022 Sep 29;23(19):11495. doi: 10.3390/ijms231911495. Int J Mol Sci. 2022. PMID: 36232813 Free PMC article.

  • Biological Role of Nutrients, Food and Dietary Patterns in the Prevention and Clinical Management of Major Depressive Disorder.

    Ortega MA, Fraile-Martínez Ó, García-Montero C, Alvarez-Mon MA, Lahera G, Monserrat J, Llavero-Valero M, Gutiérrez-Rojas L, Molina R, Rodríguez-Jimenez R, Quintero J, De Mon MA. Ortega MA, et al. Nutrients. 2022 Jul 28;14(15):3099. doi: 10.3390/nu14153099. Nutrients. 2022. PMID: 35956276 Free PMC article. Review.

  • Behavioral, Hormonal, and Serotonergic Responses to Different Restricted Feeding Schedules in Rats.

    Saeed R, Mahmood K, Ali SB, Haleem DJ. Saeed R, et al. Int J Tryptophan Res. 2022 Jun 20;15:11786469221104729. doi: 10.1177/11786469221104729. eCollection 2022. Int J Tryptophan Res. 2022. PMID: 35757086 Free PMC article.

  • Nutrition, Epigenetics, and Major Depressive Disorder: Understanding the Connection.

    Ortega MA, Fraile-Martínez Ó, García-Montero C, Alvarez-Mon MA, Lahera G, Monserrat J, Llavero-Valero M, Mora F, Rodríguez-Jiménez R, Fernandez-Rojo S, Quintero J, Alvarez De Mon M. Ortega MA, et al. Front Nutr. 2022 May 18;9:867150. doi: 10.3389/fnut.2022.867150. eCollection 2022. Front Nutr. 2022. PMID: 35662945 Free PMC article. Review.

  • B Vitamins, work-related stress and emotional mental disorders: a cross-sectional study among nurses in Indonesia.

    Sofyan M, Fitriani DY, Friska D, Basrowi RW, Fuady A. Sofyan M, et al. Nurs Open. 2022 Jul;9(4):2037-2043. doi: 10.1002/nop2.1213. Epub 2022 Apr 17. Nurs Open. 2022. PMID: 35434916 Free PMC article.

See all "Cited by" articles

Publication types

MeSH terms

Substances

The best vitamins for depression and stress

Stress is the body's reaction to the impact of negative external factors.
Every person has had to deal with various stresses (emotional or physical). Someone suffered because of parting with a loved one, someone was betrayed by a best friend, someone lost a prestigious job. There are many such situations. Everyone experiences stress differently. He tempers some people, makes them stronger, wiser. Others cannot cope with stress, fall into despair and are at the mercy of depression.


Most often, depression is a reactive or situational disorder. If negative emotions, depressed mood, apathy, feelings of worthlessness, decreased sexual activity, headaches, loss of appetite and insomnia do not disappear for more than two weeks, the help of a qualified doctor is needed.
But before you seek medical help, you can try to cope with depression on your own, unless, of course, it is caused by a mental illness.


Prevention of side effects and the development of depression can be achieved through proper nutrition, the use of foods containing vitamins C, E, H, B vitamins, folic acid and other important substances.

B vitamins

The most powerful vitamins in the fight against depression are B vitamins.
They have a beneficial effect on nerve cells, strengthen the immune system, restore the cardiovascular system, help the body absorb nutrients and participate in the synthesis of important compounds.
This group consists of 8 elements that complement each other. Therefore, vitamin complexes for depression contain all 8 components of this group:

• B1 - thiamine
• B3 - niacin
• B5 - pantothenic acid
• B6 - pyridoxine
• B7 (vitamin H in some sources) - biotin
• B9 - folic acid
• B12 - cyanocobalamin.

The body receives them only from the outside, they are not synthesized by themselves.
Vitamins of this group are found in large quantities in pork and beef liver, chicken, flounder, eggs, nuts, potatoes, bananas, legumes, fish, bread, herbs, peppers, squids, dairy products, mackerel, cod, seeds, brown rice.
By consuming these products, a person can prevent the development of chronic fatigue.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C regulates the functions of the adrenal glands and is involved in the production of cortisol. This element strengthens nails, hair, restores the skin and thereby improves the appearance of a person. In addition, it is involved in the formation of bone tissue.
Vitamin C is most active in the presence of a sufficient amount of flavonoids, carotenoids and vitamin E.
The body does not synthesize this vitamin either. It is found in tomatoes, cauliflower, broccoli, red peppers, strawberries, watermelons, citrus fruits, and black currants.

Vitamin A

Vitamin A, known as the growth vitamin, has antioxidant properties. It helps to strengthen the immune system and maintain the health of the eyes, mucous membranes, prostate gland, uterus, lungs, and protects against respiratory diseases.
It helps to overcome emotional instability and chronic fatigue.
Natural sources of the vitamin are carrots, pumpkins, tomatoes, red peppers, apples, apricots.

Vitamin E

Vitamin E (tocopherol) supports the proper functioning of internal organs, is responsible for the immune system and the production of sex hormones. In the people it is called the "female" vitamin and beauty vitamin.
It is found in spinach, lettuce, beets, tomatoes, asparagus, turnips, lard, eggs, nuts.

Vitamin D3

Vitamin D3 strengthens the nervous system, affects the state of the heart muscle, strengthens the immune system, helps maintain a normal emotional state. In addition, it is responsible for proper metabolism, restful and long sleep, emotional stability and reduced susceptibility to negative situations.
It is synthesized by the body when sunlight hits the skin. Included in butter, egg yolk, fish oil.

Biologically active substances

The human body is such a complex mechanism that in order to maintain it in a normal, healthy state, not only vitamins are needed, but also a huge number of various elements.
1. Among them, a special place is occupied by tryptophan, which enters the body with foods rich in carbohydrates and proteins. Tryptophan is found in dates, turkey meat, cheese, and bananas.
Tryptophan is an amino acid that is a precursor of serotonin. Its deficiency causes apathy and general depression.
2. Equally important is dopamine. Despite the fact that it is not a neurotransmitter (a special conductor of cells), it facilitates the transmission of nerve impulses. It is synthesized in the body from the amino acid tyrosine, which is found in bananas, beans, sesame seeds, homemade cheese, avocados, dairy products, and peanuts. Synthesis occurs with the participation of magnesium, vitamins B12 and B9.
3. Fatty acids are indispensable in the treatment of depressive disorders. They serve as a material for the synthesis of prostaglandins, which help maintain a good mood. A diet for depression should include sea fish, beef, spinach, walnuts, shrimp, as all these foods contain a lot of fatty acids.
4. Known to many, glycine is a building component, a neurotransmitter. It regulates metabolic processes, activates the processes of protective inhibition. Its deficiency leads to increased irritability, fatigue. The substance is synthesized within the body.

Depression and unhealthy eating

Both deficiency and excess of vitamins and minerals can cause depression. Thus, high levels of magnesium contribute to the development of persistent depressive disorder. A special blood test can be used to determine magnesium levels.
Contributes to the development of depression and the appearance of suicidal thoughts eating large amounts of fat. For this reason, nutrition in depression should be balanced, fatty meat should be replaced with lean protein found in dairy products, poultry meat, and fish.
Too much glucose contributes to the development of apathy.
During depression, it is worth limiting the consumption of sweets.

Depression and food allergies

Food allergies are often the cause of depressive disorders. Symptoms of this disease are skin lesions, dark circles under the eyes, insomnia, anxiety, irritability.
According to medical research, the most common allergens are dairy products, wheat, citrus fruits and corn.

Non-prescription antidepressants for anxiety and depression, list of titles

Basket

0 ₽

NOT A MEDICINEInsomniaVitamin DVitamin EVitamin KVitamin RVitamin B VitaminsFor AdultsFor ImmunityIronCalciumMagnesiumOmega-3For StressStressImmune SupportZinc

Article author

Svetlana Bukharova,

Dietitian, fitness instructor

12 years of experience. Diploma of Medical Education: DVS 1724848

All authors

Contents of the article

  • Seasonal depression or beriberi - how to distinguish?
  • Why are we sad in winter?
  • Non-prescription antidepressants, drug names
  • What is the best antidepressant for anxiety and depression
  • What is the safest antidepressant
  • Antidepressants and alcohol
  • Ask an expert on the topic of the article

Outside the window is grey, dreary and empty. Summer colors faded, replaced by winter cold. Together with the withering of nature, the mood fades, and sadness rolls over every now and then. There is a close relationship between the onset of cold weather and depression of the psycho-emotional state.

Manifestations of dissatisfaction with oneself and the world around can be mild, not always noticeable, but can literally “cover”, deprive one of the desire to do something. Then hopelessness is felt, tearfulness appears. If you have these symptoms, you need specialist help. But with a breakdown, irritability, general lethargy, you can cope on your own. There are effective remedies that will help cheer you up during the seasonal spleen. In this article, we will tell you how to return the former energy, get rid of the winter blues and see all the colors of life again.

Seasonal depression or beriberi - how to tell the difference?

Depression is experienced by 264 million people in the world - these are the WHO data. If depression drags on, becomes moderate or severe, it can lead to serious health problems.

Seasonal depression, in contrast to a simple drop in mood due to stress or beriberi, has its own characteristics:

  • Lasts longer than two weeks, there is a decrease in mood.
  • Apathy occurs, there is a decrease in activity.
  • Appetite disorder appears. A person gains weight up to 6-7 kg in 2-3 months, or, conversely, loses weight dramatically.
  • Dramatically increases the duration of sleep.

Why are we sad in winter?

In the past two decades, the number of patients with seasonal depression has increased. According to doctors, from 4 to 10% of people suffer from such depressions. There are several reasons for winter melancholy. Let's talk about the main ones.

  • Lack of sun. In summer, there is enough sunshine and you feel comfortable. With the onset of cold weather, the dose of the sun decreases, biochemical processes slow down. The body begins to "protest", there is fatigue in the muscles, nervousness. The fact that the sun is the “supplier” of vitamin D has been known to everyone since childhood. And it is the lack of this vitamin that provokes an unstable psycho-emotional state in people of different ages. For example, Italian scientists from the National Institute of Aging have found a relationship between vitamin D deficiency and the onset of depressive symptoms in patients aged 65 and older. The lower the level of the "sunshine" vitamin, the higher was the risk of developing a depressive mood. And researchers from the UK have identified such a relationship in adolescents and concluded that the relationship between the concentration of vitamin D and depression occurs in childhood.
  • Psychological factors. The autumn-winter period is a kind of completion of the annual cycle. People begin to analyze their time, sum up. And plans not always conceived at the beginning of the year are implemented by the end of the year. Therefore, there is a feeling of dissatisfaction. By the end of the year, physical and moral strength is also running out, and the lack of rest, experienced emotional upheavals cause a feeling of melancholy. Sudden mood swings are possible.
  • Stress. An emergency at work, conflicts in the family lead to the fact that a person begins to negatively perceive everything that happens. According to statistics, the peak of nervous tension and fatigue occurs precisely at the end of autumn - the beginning of winter.
  • Reduced immunity. According to experts, this feature of autumn depression is associated with a decrease in the quality of the immune system. The lack of vitamins and nutrients, as well as the exacerbation of chronic diseases against the background of a decrease in immunity, negatively affects the state of the human psyche.

Over-the-counter antidepressants, drug names

Naturally formulated supplements can help with seasonal disorders and mild depression. We have collected the top 5 most popular according to the retail audit of the pharmaceutical market in Russia. Let's talk about the pros and cons of each dietary supplement.

  • Detrimax from Unipharm. The composition of "Detrimax" includes vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol). This vital fat-soluble vitamin is needed for the activity of almost all organs and systems of the body, including the nervous one. Regulates the psycho-emotional sphere, improves memory, performance, mood, increases the overall tone of the body. "Detrimax" has no contraindications during pregnancy, but it should be taken with caution. Clinical studies conducted by medical scientists of the St. Petersburg North-Western State Medical University named after I.I. Mechnikov, confirmed the effectiveness of the drug. Patients improved cognitive function, decreased levels of anxiety and depression.
  • "Neurouridin" from "Unipharm". Replenishes the deficiency of biologically active substances. Strengthens the nervous system, improves the general condition of the body, memory, attention. Reduces stress reactions. As part of the drug: uridine monophosphate, choline, vitamins B6, B1 and B12. Uridine Monophosphate is important for the rapid recovery of damaged nerves. B vitamins ensure the normal functioning of the nervous system. Folic Acid is important for the brain and maintaining mental and emotional health. Choline improves the transmission of neuromuscular signals, increases the speed of transmission of impulses along nerve fibers. The disadvantages of the drug include the fact that it can not be used during pregnancy and lactation.
  • Stressovit from Unipharm. Has a sedative effect. Helps reduce psycho-emotional stress, relieve stress, improves overall well-being, increases efficiency. The main component of the drug is magnesium . Magnesium has been proven to be the fourth most abundant mineral in the body. Magnesium deficiency leads to increased irritability, fatigue, sleep disturbance. A sufficient amount of magnesium in the body increases resistance to stress, reduces the excitation of the nervous system, and normalizes sleep. The composition of "Stressovita" also includes motherwort, hops and linden flowers. Motherwort relieves manifestations of psycho-emotional overstrain. It has a calming, anti-stress and relaxing effect. Hops - soothes and reduces stress. A similar effect in linden flowers. It is not recommended to use "Stressovit" with individual intolerance to its components, as well as pregnant and lactating mothers.
  • "Kinetop" from "Artlife". Improves mood, increases efficiency, relieves stress, anxiety, eliminates irritability. An important component of Kinetop is 5-hydroxy-L-tryptophan (5-HTP), an amino acid that serves as an intermediate for the conversion of tryptophan into serotonin. It is often referred to as the "happiness hormone". Serotonin improves mood. Lack of hormone leads to depression, insomnia. There is an unhealthy craving for sweets. Kinetop contains the optimal dosage of 5-HTP, as well as magnesium, zinc, vitamins B5 and B6. Another plus of Kinetop is that it does not cause addiction and withdrawal syndrome. At the same time, the drug should not be used during pregnancy, lactation, and up to 18 years.
  • Calm formula from Evalar. Dietary supplement based on motherwort . The composition of the drug also includes magnesium and vitamin B6. It has a sedative, anti-anxiety effect. Helps to resist stress, better endure psycho-emotional stress. "Calm formula" is used for increased nervous excitability, irritability, anxiety, insomnia. The drug should not be used for peptic ulcer of the stomach and duodenum in the acute phase, children under 18 years of age, severe renal failure. Not recommended for pregnant and lactating women. BAA can cause allergic reactions, abdominal pain, nausea, heartburn, flatulence, diarrhea, constipation.

Important! Non-prescription herbal antidepressants are not a panacea. It is an accompanying and restorative element. He will not be able to cure a severe disease.

All products Detrimax

20 reviews

Add color and positive to your life!

Many people say that dietary supplements are a placebo. In most cases, we assign them to ourselves and think that they work. And so it happens, because the power of thought is already a medicine. Think positively and a good mood will not keep you waiting. Positive emotions in life will bring the purchase of various little things that will improve your mood. The colors of life will return the study of something new, self-development, communication with relatives and friends, playing sports. Physical activity has a positive effect on the psycho-emotional balance due to the stimulation of the nervous system. Pay attention to yoga. Scientifically proven fact: Indian hatha yoga helps to forget about depression. Scientists from the Smolensk State Medical Academy studied the effects of yoga therapy on people with various forms of depressive disorders and asthenia. Patients attended classes three times a week for a month and a half. After a yoga course, 12 out of 19patients noted a significant improvement in well-being, up to the complete disappearance of signs of fatigue, increased activity, working capacity, improved mood, significantly improved overall self-esteem.

Look around - the world is full of joy at any time of the year. The main thing is to notice it in time. If your depression is not clinical in nature, you can get rid of the disease yourself and look at life with different eyes.

Sources:

  • PubMed: Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D and depressive symptoms in older women and men. National Institute on Aging, Clinical Research Unit, USA.
  • PubMed: "Association of serum 25-hydroxyvitamins D3 and D2 with depressive symptoms in childhood - a prospective cohort study." Center for Causal Analysis in Translational Epidemiology, School of Social and Community Medicine, University of Bristol, UK.
  • Russian pharmaceutical market.
  • Medical scientific and practical journal "Attending Doctor": "Evaluation of the effectiveness of the use of vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) in the correction of cognitive disorders in patients with cerebrovascular disease." G. I. Shvartsman, E. M. Pervova, I. V. Chistova, E. A. Yurkina. FGBOU VO SZGMU them. I. I. Mechnikov of the Ministry of Health of Russia, St. Petersburg.
  • Magnesium in Prevention and Therapy, Academy of Micronutrient Medicine, Germany.
  • Sciencedirect.com: "Effect of magnesium supplementation on depressive status in depressed magnesium-deficient patients: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial." Department of Nutrition, Faculty of Health, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran.
  • Cyberleninka.ru: "Application of the Hatha Yoga system as a stage in the complex therapy of depressive disorders." Scientific article by K. A. Yakunin I. A. Zubova.
  • World Health Organization.
  • Register of medicines of Russia.

Which antidepressant is best for anxiety and depression

Do you want to understand drug analogues in order to skillfully select drugs for your budget? Our manual from expert pharmacists "Analogues of popular drugs" will help you with this! Getting a training manual is easy: subscribe to our social networks and write "analogues" in the messages.

Megapharmacy in social networks: VKontakte, Telegram, OK, Viber

Antidepressant drugs are prescribed strictly by a doctor, after consultation. Thus, it is not possible to say which antidepressant is better, as the doctor decides. For each individual case.

Let's talk about some prescribed antidepressants:

  • Phenibut is a prescription drug. Helps reduce or disappear feelings of anxiety, tension, anxiety and fear, normalizes sleep, has some anticonvulsant effect.
  • Phenazepam is a prescription drug. The effect is manifested in a decrease in emotional stress, weakening anxiety, fear, anxiety.
  • Anafranil is a prescription drug. It has a strong antidepressant effect and common side effects. In addition to the antidepressant effect, it reduces obsession and anxiety.
All products Phenibut

20 reviews

All products Anafranil

5 reviews

All products Phenazepam

20 reviews

Which antidepressant is the safest

The safest antidepressant, like the best, has yet to be invented. Any drugs have side effects. We can talk about drugs that have less, compared to others, negative reactions to the patient.

These include antidepressants from the group of SSRIs - selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. Their advantages:

  • high efficiency
  • short course of treatment
  • no withdrawal syndrome
  • easy dosing
  • good tolerance

Due to their properties, they are often prescribed:

  • Zoloft
  • Paxil
  • Prozac
  • Trittiko
  • Fevarin
  • Cipralex
  • Cipramil

Antidepressants of a new class: Brintellix and Valdoxan also have minimal side effects.

Antidepressants and alcohol

Drinking alcohol for depression is common. What happens if antidepressants are added to this relaxation method? The group of antidepressants includes drugs with different mechanisms of action.

Learn more