Depression is a pervasive and often debilitating condition that can significantly impact your ability to perform well at work or school, enjoy social activities and enjoy the company of your loved ones. Although symptoms vary by person, loss of interest in daily activities, sleep disturbances, loss of hope and physical pain frequently accompany this condition. Fatigue is also a common symptom of depression. Certain supplements may help boost energy levels and other symptoms of this chronic condition. Check with your physician before using any supplement to boost your energy and combat depression.
Niacin
Niacin, also known as vitamin B-3, may help calm your nervous system, reducing irritability associated with depression, according to Phyllis Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing." This vitamin may also enhance blood circulation, aiding in the delivery of vitamins necessary for your brain to produce serotonin, a mood-lifting neurotransmitter chemical. Niacin helps your body metabolize fats and proteins in foods, which your body uses to produce energy. However, long-term use of niacin may promote liver damage, particularly if you take more than 500 mg per day, notes MayoClinic.com.
Ginkgo Biloba
Ginkgo biloba is a supplement derived from the leaves of the ginkgo tree, which is native to China. This supplement may improve your brain's ability to use serotonin, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. It may also help enhance mental focus, reducing the mental fatigue associated with depression. However, current evidence is insufficient to support the use of ginkgo biloba for mental fatigue and depression. Talk to your doctor before using ginkgo biloba -- this herb may interfere with blood clotting.
St. John's Wort
St. John's wort was originally used by ancient Roman herbalists to treat wounds and snake bites, according to Michael Castleman, author of "The New Healing Herbs." However, this herb may also provide anti-depressant benefits. It may reduce depression symptoms in as little as four to six weeks, and may cause fewer side effects than prescription treatments for depression, according to the UMMC. Check with your physician before taking St. John's wort. It may cause high blood pressure when combined with monoamine oxidase inhibitors, a major class of prescription antidepressants in the United States.
Calcium
Calcium is most widely known for its role in preventing osteoporosis; however, this mineral may help relieve depression and boost energy levels, according to Balch. It may have a calming effect on your nervous system, which may help relieve stress associated with depression. Calcium may help regulate nerve impulses in your brain that trigger depressive symptoms. It is also essential for the metabolism of fats for use as energy. However, supplements containing this mineral may increase your risk of developing kidney stones.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Depression
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, C.N.C.; 2010
- "The New Healing Herbs"; Michael Castleman; 2010
- MayoClinic.com: Niacin (vitamin B3, nicotinic acid), Niacinamide
