The U.S. surgeon general reports about 20 percent of the adult population is faced with some type of mental illness; of that, 2.4 percent suffer from obsessive-compulsive disorder, or OCD. The cost of mental treatment exceeds 7 percent of total healthcare costs. Some healthcare providers suggest natural supplements before trying prescription medications.
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
Obsessive-compulsive disorder, OCD, is classified as an anxiety disorder. There are two components to this disorder. The first is the obsessive, unwanted recurrent thoughts, feelings or sensations. The second is the action or compulsion that makes these unwanted feelings cease. Often a certain behavior must be carried out to ease the repeated thoughts. Unfortunately, this tends to only provide temporary relief until a new thought or feeling arises and another action must be carried out.
Vitamin B12
Decreased levels of vitamin B12 have been found in those with OCD. Vitamin B12 is an essential, water-soluable vitamin that the body requires. It is used for maintaining the nerve cells and red blood cells in the body. B12 depletion is very rare; however, there are those who are unable to absorb the vitamin into the bloodstream. If this is the case, a B12 supplement should be consumed.
Mental Illness and Diet
In a January 2008 article in Nutrition Journal, researchers observed that the prevalence of mental disorders, specifically obsessive-compulsive disorder, has increased since Americans have been consuming unhealthy foods. Those who eat a typical western diet have decreased levels of omega-3 fatty acids and the essential B vitamins. Populations from other countries who consume more fish have less incidence of mental illnesses, along with increased serotonin levels in the brain, contributing to fewer symptoms of OCD.
Treatment
Vitamin B12 should never be taken without consulting a physician first. The body can store many years of vitamin B12. It can be obtained by eating fish, poultry, low-fat dairy products and whole grains. If suggested by a physician, vitamin B12 can be supplemented by over-the-counter tablets or prescription injections.
