Folic Acid & Moods

Mood is a relatively long emotional state that changes depending on overall well-being. Mood disorders such as major depression, bipolar disorder, seasonal affective disorder and mania affect about 20 percent of the American population at least once in a given month, according to Mental Health America, a nonprofit organization that promotes mental wellness. Alcoholism, substance abuse, physical illness and certain personality traits increase the risk of mood disorders. Treatment generally involves psychotherapy and medications. Certain supplements such as folic acid may also manage mood disorders.

Folic Acid

Folic acid is a part of the water-soluble vitamin B complex. It plays an important role in the formation and maintenance of new cells in the body. The National Institute of Health’s Office of Dietary Supplements recommends 150 to 400 mcg of the vitamin per day, depending on the age and overall health of the individual. It can be obtained from green leafy vegetables, fruits, died fruits and beans and fortified cereals, and from supplements. Your doctor may recommend folic acid supplements to treat a variety of conditions, including heart disease, certain types of cancers, hearing loss and to prevent birth defects. The dose may vary depending on your age and health history. Your doctor may help establish a regimen that is appropriate for you.

Mood Disorders

Folic acid can improve mood and neuropsychological function in patients with depression and folate deficiency, and in older individuals, according to a study published in the June 2002 issue of the “British Medical Journal.” Treatment with 5 mg of folic acid for one to three years may improve mood in epilepsy patients with folate deficiency, the study says. A review article in the November 2006 issue of the journal “The Lancet Neurology” also reveals that folic acid supplements improve mood, cognitive function and social recovery in depression patients with folic acid deficiency. Dietitian and television host Elizabeth Somer writes in the book “Food and Mood” that folic acid deficiency is seen in 38 percent of depression patients and its supplements help improve mood in these patients. The University of Maryland Medical Center also reveals that folic acid supplements improve the response of the patient to antidepressant drugs.

Side Effects

Folic acid supplements are generally safe to use, although high doses of it can lead to upset stomach, insomnia, skin reactions and seizures. The supplements may also interfere with antibiotics such as tetracycline and certain arthritis and birth-control medications.

Precautions

Although folic acid supplements are easily available at most local pharmacies without a prescription, you must talk to a doctor before using them to improve your mood. Make sure that the supplements have been tested for safety and efficacy or have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration.