Depression is a disorder characterized by feelings of sadness and worthlessness that disrupts normal life activities. Symptoms of depression include feelings of emptiness, fatigue, overeating and the thought of suicide. Although men and women both experience depression, men experience depression differently from women, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. Men are more likely to acknowledge fatigue and loss of interest in activities rather than sadness or guilt. Furthermore, men are more likely to turn to drugs and alcohol in order to deal with depression. Although medications are often prescribed for depression, certain supplements can also help treat depression. Consult with your doctor before taking any supplements.
Folic Acid
Dr. Simon Gilbody led a team of researchers who reviewed literature studies regarding the relationship between the B vitamin folate and depression. Their findings, published in 2006 in the "Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health," concluded that low levels of folate are associated with depression. In addition, they noted that evidence suggests that folic acid supplements can benefit those with depression. Folate works by increasing food chemicals, such as serotonin in the brain, which could help fight against depression in men.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D may help fight depression, according to findings reported in the 2008 issue of the "Archives of General Psychiatry." Dr. Witte J.G. Hoogendijk and colleagues investigated the relationship between vitamin D levels and depression. They found that subjects with low vitamin D levels and higher parathyroid hormone levels were more likely to suffer from depression than those with sufficient vitamin D levels and average parathyroid levels. Higher dietary intake of vitamin D can not only prevent vitamin D deficiency, but can also help lower parathyroid activity, according to the researchers. This might be effective in fighting depression in men.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acid supplementation may have a positive effect on depressive symptoms in men. According to researched published in 2006 in the "American Journal of Psychiatry," subjects consuming omega-3 fatty acids had significant reductions on a depression scale compared to the placebo group who showed no improvement.
References
- "Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health";Is low folate a risk factor for depression? A meta-analysis and exploration of heterogeneity; S.Gilbody et al; September 2006
- "Archives of General Psychiatry"; Depression Is Associated With Decreased 25-Hydroxyvitamin D and Increased Parathyroid Hormone Levels in Older Adults; J.G. Hoogendijk et al; May 2008
- "American Journal of Psychiatry"; Omega-3 Treatment of Childhood Depression: A Controlled, Double-Blind Pilot Study; H.Nemets; June 2006
- National Institute of Mental Health: Depression
