Depression is a serious mental illness characterized by feelings of hopelessness, despair, sadness, sleep problems and weight changes. A common illness, depression affects more than 20 million Americans, according to MedlinePlus. Fortunately, antidepressants drugs and psychotherapy can help most people with this condition. Folic acid might also help to alleviate depression, although scientific evidence to prove this is mixed. Get medical advice from your doctor before taking a folic acid supplement and do not use it in place of any antidepressants your doctor prescribes.
Properties and Uses
Also known as vitamin B-9, folic acid is a water-soluble vitamin that plays a key role in energy production, and also helps the body to metabolize fats and proteins. It is also essential for proper brain function and helps to prevent neural tube defects in the developing fetus. The University of Maryland Medical Center notes that a link also appears to exist between depression and folic acid levels. Specifically, people who suffer from depression may have lower levels of folic acid than those that don't suffer from this condition. Low folic acid levels might also be associated with poor responses to anti-depressant drugs.
Effectiveness
Evidence to support the use of folic acid in the treatment of depression is mixed. An article published in the January 2010 issue of "Prostaglandins, Leukotrines, and Essential Fatty Acids" notes that administering folic acid in combination with polyunsaturated fatty acids could be of significant benefit to patients with depression. In contrast, an article published in the August 2010 issue of "Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice" states that a lack of evidence exists to justify prescription of folic acid in patients with severe or chronic depression. However, the authors state that it should be considered for patients who do not respond to pharmaceutical depression treatments.
Sources and Administration
A variety of foods contain folic acid, including mustard greens, lima beans, brewer's yeast, salmon, orange juice, milk and kidney beans. It is also available as a dietary supplement in tablets, lozenges and capsules. The University of Maryland Medical Center states that it is beneficial to take folic acid alongside a multivitamin as other B vitamins are needed to activate it. The recommended daily amount for adults 19 and over is 400 mcg, but you may need to take a higher dosage for depression. Ask your doctor for advice.
Safety Considerations
Very high doses of folic acid may cause side effects including stomach discomfort, sleep and skin problems, and seizures. Folic acid supplements may reduce the effectiveness of other drugs you may be taking including antibiotics. Get medical clearance before taking a high dose of folic acid alongside your current medicines.
References
- MedlinePlus; Depression; March 2011
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Vitamin B9 (Folic Acid); May 2009
- "Prostaglandins, Leukotrines, and Essential Fatty Acids"; Folic Acid and Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids Improve Cognitive Function and Prevent Depression, Dementia, and Alzheimer's Disease--But How and Why?; U.N. Das; January 2008
- "Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice"; The Role of Folic Acid in Prevention and Treatment of Depression: An Overview of Existing Evidence and Implications for Practice; C. Lazarou and M. Kapsou; August 2010
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