Though it is not known exactly what causes depression, some studies have shown a correlation between vitamin deficiencies and depression. Some vitamins that may play a key role in mood and depression prevention include B vitamins such as vitamin B-12, vitamin B-6 and folate. Vitamin D may also play a role in mood.
B Vitamins
Low levels of B vitamins, including vitamin B-12, vitamin B-6 and folate may be linked to depression, according to MayoClinic.com. In 2005, scientists at the MRC Neuropsychiatric Research Laboratory in the United Kingdom published an article in the "Journal of Psychopharmacology" highlighting the links found between depression and low levels of B vitamins in the general population, as well as the high incidence of vitamin B deficiency in studies of depressive patients. Vitamin B deficiency may be a result of a poor diet or an inability to absorb vitamins. Older adults, vegetarians and individuals with digestive disorders are particularly vulnerable to vitamin B deficiency.
Vitamin D
Studies about the association between vitamin D deficiency and depression have produced inconsistent results, but high doses of supplemental vitamin D may improve symptoms of mild depression, according to the division of biostatistics and epidemiology at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst in a 2009 article published with the Nutrition Foundation. The article points out that supplemental vitamin D may not improve symptoms as successfully in people with moderate to severe depression. In 2008, scientists at the Institute of Clinical Medicine in Norway published an article in the European Journal of International Medicine suggesting a relationship between levels of vitamin D and depression symptoms. According to the article, high doses of supplemental vitamin D seemed to improve symptoms in depressed individuals.
Supplements
Vitamin supplements may improve symptoms of depression. Discuss possible vitamin supplements with your doctor before you begin taking them. Some supplements may interact with other medications, especially in high doses, says MayoClinic.com. Supplements should not replace other treatments for major depression. Talk to your doctor or psychiatrist about other treatment options as well.
Other Depression Causes
Research has not provided a clear explanation for depression. Factors likely involved include biological differences in the brain and neurotransmitters, inherited traits, major life events, early childhood trauma and changes in hormonal balance as a result of thyroid problems, menopause or other conditions, according to MayoClinic.com.
References
- "Nutrition Review"; Vitamin D and the Occurrence of Depression; Bertone-Johnson ER; 2009
- PubMed; Effects of Vitamin D Supplementation on Symptoms of Depression in "Journal of Internal Medicine"; Overweight and Obese Subjects; Jorde R; 2008
- MayoClinic.com: What's the Relationship Between Vitamin B-12 and Depression?; Daniel K. Hall-Flavin, M.D.
- MayoClinic.com: Depression (Major Depression); Causes; February 11, 2010
