According to the National Library of Medicine, depression affects more than 20 million people in the United States. It is not just a feeling of being blue, apathetic or down in the dumps. Depression is an often serious disorder that involves the imbalance of chemicals in the brain. It often runs in families. Supplements may be helpful, but if you experience depression that is severe or persistent, ask your health care provider for help.
Folate
Folate, a type of B vitamin, is involved with DNA synthesis, tissue repair and the formation of red blood cells. A lack of folate appears to be associated with depression. An article by Jerome Sarris and colleagues in the journal "Nutrition Reviews" states that one-third of those with a folate deficiency are affected by depression and that low levels of folate in the blood serum have been shown to be widespread among people who have depression. Several studies have demonstrated that folate supplements increase the rate of response to antidepressant medications. More testing is necessary to determine whether folate alone can lift depression symptoms, but Sarris believes that the evidence is compelling enough for physicians to check folate levels in their patients with major depressive disorder. Folate is usually included in multivitamin supplements and in B vitamin complex supplements. Check with your physician before using folate to address depression or any other health problem.
SAMe
The scientific name for SAMe, which stands for S-adenosylmethionine. It is involved in the synthesis of many important components in the body, including dopamine and serotonin, neurotransmitters connected to mood and motivation. According to Sarris, the several research trials have shown that the antidepressant effects of SAMe are better than placebo and comparable to those of antidepressant medications. SAMe may also be useful for arthritis. This supplement should be taken on an empty stomach. Consult your health care provider for more information about SAMe.
St. John's Wort
According to the Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, research studies suggest that St. John's wort may work just as well as certain prescription antidepressant medicines in the treatment of mild-to-moderate depression. Research has also demonstrated its usefulness in the treatment of hot flashes and premenstrual syndrome. St. John's wort is a flowering yellow plant known also as hypericum or goatweed. This herb may cause serious side effects when combined with some prescription medicines, and it could cause mania if used by people with bipolar disorder. Consult your physician before using it.
References
- Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center: St. John's Wort
- "Nutrition Reviews"; Major Depressive Disorder and Nutritional Medicine; J. Sarris et al; March 2009
- MedlinePlus: Depression
