Depressive disorders such as atypical depression are one of the most common mental health problems in the world. According to the World Health Organization, depression affects around 121 million people worldwide and is one of the leading causes of disability as of publication. While researchers aren't exactly sure what causes depressive disorders, biological, social and psychological factors are thought to play a role. Scientists have also examined the effects of diet and nutritional deficiencies on depressive disorders.
About Atypical Depression
Based on its name, you might think atypical depression is an unusual or rare form of depression. However, atypical depression, a type of depressive disorder, is one of the most common forms of depression. According to MayoClinic.com, atypical depression resembles other depressive disorders because they share symptoms such as feelings of sadness, tearfulness and a loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed. However, certain symptoms are thought to be atypical, in that they differ from those of most other types of depressive disorders. These symptoms include increased appetite, manifesting as a particular craving for carbohydrates, weight gain, an increased need for sleep, relationship problems, sensitivity to criticism or rejection and heavy feelings in your extremities, as though it takes a lot of effort to move your hands or legs. While atypical depression is usually treated with psychotherapy and medication, research has shown that vitamin deficiencies, especially B-12 deficiencies, may contribute to or exacerbate some of the symptoms.
Importance of Vitamin B-12
Vitamin B-12, also known as cobalamin, is one of the members of the vitamin B-complex family. It is a water soluble vitamin, meaning that it is not stored in your body and must be replenished through dietary sources or supplementation on a daily basis. Vitamin B-12 plays a crucial role in the functioning of your brain. A study published in the September 2008 issue of the journal "Neurology" showed that decreased intake of vitamin B-12 was associated with brain shrinkage in the elderly. Additionally, a case report and literature review published in the November-December 2003 issue of the French journal, "Encephale," showed that low levels of vitamin B-12 are associated with depression, mania and certain atypical psychiatric symptoms.
Clinical Evidence
Specific studies regarding the benefits of vitamin B-12 supplementation or the effects of vitamin B-12 deficiency on atypical depression are limited. Most studies have shown the effects and benefits of B-12 on depressive disorders in general. A review published in the December 1996 issue of the journal, "Nutrition Reviews," states that low levels of vitamin B-12 can aggravate symptoms of depression. A review of clinical studies published in the January 2005 issue of the "Journal of Psychopharmacology" reports that low B-12 levels are often found in depressed patients, and increased intake of B-12 is associated with an improved treatment outcome. A study published in the May 2000 issue of the "American Journal of Psychiatry" examined the effects of a B-12 deficiency on physically disabled, aging women. The results showed that a deficiency of B-12 is associated with an increased risk of depression. Despite these findings, more research needs to be conducted on the specific effects of vitamin B-12 on atypical depression.
Considerations
Although more clinical evidence is needed to support the effectiveness of B-12 on atypical depressive symptoms, increasing your dietary intake of vitamin B-12 or using a vitamin B-12 supplement may help. Foods that are high in vitamin B-12 include animal products like meat, poultry, milk, eggs and milk products. B-12 is generally not found in plant foods. Vegetarians or people who have trouble absorbing B-12 may be at a higher risk of a vitamin B-12 deficiency, according to the Office of Dietary Supplements. Inform your doctor if you plan to use dietary supplements. Vitamins are not a cure for depression. Do not stop taking prescribed medications unless directed to do so by your doctor.
References
- World Health Organization: Depression
- MayoClinic.com: Atypical Depression: Symptoms
- "Neurology"; Vitamin B12 Status and Rate of Brain Volume Loss...; A. Vogiatzoglou et al; September 2008
- "Encephale"; Psychiatric Manifestations of Vitamin B12 Deficiency...; C. Durand et al; Nov./Dec. 2003
- "Nutrition Reviews"; Folate, Vitamin B12, and Neuropsychiatric Disorders; T. Bottiglieri; Dec. 1996
- "Journal of Psychopharmacology"; Treatment of Depression...; A. Coppen et al; Jan. 2005
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