Relationship Between Vitamin B and Depression
Vitamin B12 and other B vitamins play a role in the production of brain chemicals that affect various brain functions – including mood. Low levels of vitamins B12, B-6 and folate are suspected of triggering or promoting depression.
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Dr. Daniel K. Hall-Flavin is a psychiatrist at the renowned Mayo Clinic in the USA. In a recent contribution from the clinic, the specialist explains the connections between low levels of various B vitamins and Depression consist.
Some people struggle to get B12
As the psychiatrist reports, low levels of these vitamins can be the result of certain diets or the inability to absorb the vitamins ingested. In particular older adults, vegans and people with digestive disorders like Celiac disease or Crohn’s disease may have difficulty getting enough vitamin B12. If a deficiency is suspected, a blood test should be carried out to clarify this.
Supplements recommended in case of deficiency
If a vitamin B12 deficiency is diagnosed, it is advisable, according to the specialist, to take dietary supplements with B12. This helps the body get enough nutrients. However, caution should be exercised when taking it together with other medications. Because B12 vitamin preparations interact with some medicines, especially if they are taken in high doses. This should definitely be discussed with a doctor in advance.
Get enough vitamin B12 through your diet
If you want to ensure that sufficient vitamin B12 is absorbed through your diet, you should, according to Dr. Hall-Flavin regularly consume animal products such as fish, lean meat, poultry, eggs and dairy products. Breakfast cereals fortified with B12 are also a good alternative.
Depression due to B12 deficiency?
“Note that the role of B vitamins in depression is not clear,” says Dr. Hall flavin. While there are studies that suggest a link, more research is needed to produce definitive evidence. Likewise, it has not yet been sufficiently proven whether taking vitamin B12 supplements can help reduce the risk of depression. “Dietary supplements cannot replace proven depression treatments such as antidepressants and psychological counseling,” the psychiatrist concludes. (vb)
Further information can be found in the article: Vitamin B12 Deficiency – Symptoms and Therapy.
Author and source information
This text complies with the requirements of specialist medical literature, medical guidelines and current studies and has been checked by medical professionals.
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Author:
Diploma-Editor (FH) Volker Blasek
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Swell:
- Mayo Clinic: Consumer Health: What’s the relationship between low levels of vitamin B-12 and depression? (veröffentlicht: 28.08.2020), newsnetwork.mayoclinic.org
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Important NOTE:
This article is for general guidance only and should not be used for self-diagnosis or self-treatment. He can not substitute a visit at the doctor.
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