The Best Vitamins for Mood Swings

The Best Vitamins for Mood Swings
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There are various reasons for someone to experience fluctuations in mood, as explained on herbs2000.com. A healthy diet affects your mind and body, as your emotions are more likely to become unstable if there is an imbalance or inadequacy in nutrient levels in the body.
The most effective way to balance nutrition levels and stabilize your mood is to regulate your vitamin and supplement intake, and pay close attention to the type of nutrition you are giving your body. There are several specific vitamins that are best for controlling your mood, and adequate intake of these vitamins will ultimately help level your mood swings.

B-Complex Vitamins

The B-complex vitamins are essential for mental and emotional wellness, according to healthandgoodness.com. You can find B-complex vitamins in a number of forms, which individually provide specific benefits for mind and body.
The brain uses vitamin B1 (thiamine) to help convert blood sugar into energy, so a lack of B1 causes fatigue, depression, irritability and anxiety, as well as memory problems, appetite loss and insomnia. Deficiency in vitamin B3, or niacin, produces agitation and anxiety. Inadequate levels of vitamin B5, or pantothenic acid, in the diet cause fatigue, chronic stress and depression. Other beneficial B vitamins for mood include vitamin B6, or pyridoxine, and vitamin B12.

Vitamin C

Taking vitamin C supplements or eating foods rich in vitamin C, such as brussel sprouts, citrus fruits, peppers, cranberry juice and cantaloupe, helps reduce stress and improve your mood, according to Buzzle.com. The nutrients in vitamin C help strengthen your immune system and support brain function, giving your body the fuel and energy it needs to stay uplifted and healthy.

Vitamin D

According to an article on "Science Daily," a daily dose of vitamin D helps to lift the mood during cold weather months when the days are shorter and the sun sets earlier. Adequate dietary intake of vitamin D, exposure to sunlight and treatment with vitamin D2 or D3 supplements help treat depression and improve mood levels. Additionally, vitamin D supplements improve blood sugar levels and mood by decreasing insulin resistance.

References

Article reviewed by demand68117 Last updated on: May 16, 2010

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