Depression can take several forms, ranging from mild to debilitating. Major depressive disorder is the most common diagnosis, impacting over 14 million American adults, notes the National Institute of Mental Health. Depression is a treatable disorder and recognizing the early signs in order to seek support is important for achieving a positive outcome for managing symptoms. The primary method of treatment is medication intervention and counseling. Vitamin and nutritional treatments serve as an adjunct or alternative form of intervention.
Vitamin B9 and B12
Vitamins B9 and B12 are important for regulating mental and emotional health. The University of Maryland Medical Center indicates that deficient levels of vitamin B9 is implicated in people with varying levels of depression. Vitamin B12 is also a contributor to mood and low levels may cause an increase in depression. Vitamins B9 and B12 occur naturally in foods like fish, poultry and dairy. Beans and root vegetables also contain these vitamins. Eat a diet including these types of foods to get adequate amounts of vitamins B9 and B12 or talk to your physician about use of supplements. Daily recommended intake of vitamin B9 is 400 mcg, states the UMMC and vitamin B12 is 2.4 mcg. For treating symptoms of depression, higher doses may be indicated under medical supervision.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D is more commonly known as a facilitator of calcium absorption for bone health. However, vitamin D is also important for maintaining nerve health in order for chemical messages to flow between the brain and different body parts. According to the Vitamin D Council, this nutrient may further play a role in depression. Deficiencies in vitamin D are linked to the depression symptoms related to seasonal affective disorder and low serotonin levels. Serotonin is a chemical messenger that plays a role in mood. Daily intake of vitamin D in adults is 600 international units, recommends the council, and is obtained through sunlight or animal based foods like egg, fish or milk. Direct sunlight is suggested with caution due to the risk of skin cancer.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is an important nutrient for maintaining the health of your immune system and in facilitating the absorption of iron. Deficiencies in vitamin C can also contribute to symptoms associated with depression like fatigue and apathy. The Linus Pauling Institute indicates that vitamin C further plays a role in the synthesis of the neurotransmitter norepinephrine, which impacts your mood. The daily recommended intake for vitamin C is 75 mg for women and 90 mg for men. However, in the treatment of depression, vitamin C in higher doses is an option, but not to exceed an upper limit of 2,000 mg, states the Institute. Consult your physician before using higher doses of vitamin C to ensure safety. Food sources of vitamin C include citrus like oranges and grapefruit.
Interactions and Side Effects
Consuming vitamins from natural food sources by eating well-balanced meals from the food groups is optimal for maintaining nutrients to reduce depressive symptoms. However, prescription medications may prove necessary depending on your specific condition. Consult your physician regarding use of vitamin supplements while taking prescription medications. Unlike eating vitamin containing foods, use of supplements can cause drug interactions including blocking the effectiveness of blood thinners or creating an increase in serotonin.
