Mood problems, such as depression and anxiety, are common among people in the United States. Depression affects about 18 million Americans, and about 5 percent of people in the United States suffer from anxiety, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Counseling and prescription medications are common treatments for mood disorders. However, vitamins may also help these conditions.
Vitamins should not replace traditional treatment for mood disorders. Contact your physician before beginning a vitamin regimen.
Vitamin B5
Vitamin B5 may help support the proper functioning of the nervous system, according to Dr. James Balch and Phyllis Balch, authors of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing." It may help soothe feelings of anxiety. Vitamin B5 may also aid in the production of brain chemicals, such as serotonin, that can ease symptoms of depression. This vitamin is available in supplement form, and can also be found in eggs, fish, mushrooms, beef, whole grains and brewer's yeast.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is an important vitamin for easing fatigue, loss of appetite and other effects of depression, according to Alice Feinstein, author of "Prevention's Healing with Vitamins." A vitamin C deficiency may contribute to depression. This vitamin may help boost the body's immune system and aid in the delivery of vital nutrients to the brain, which may help elevate mood. Vitamin C is found in supplements, oranges, kiwifruit, grapefruit, avocados, broccoli and spinach.
Niacin
Niacin, also called vitamin B3, helps protect nerve endings, and aids in the metabolism of proteins and fats from foods. This vitamin also improves blood circulation in the brain, which may help ease the symptoms of anxiety, depression and other mood disorders. It may also be helpful for controlling mental illnesses, such as schizophrenia, according to Dr. James Balch and Phyllis Balch. Niacin is found in dairy products, peanuts, pork products, wheat bran, eggs and fish.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Depression
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Anxiety Disorders
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; James F. Balch, M.D. and Phyllis A. Balch, C.N.C.; 1997
- "Prevention's Healing with Vitamins"; Alice Feinstein; 1996
