B Vitamins
In this section, we will discuss the effect that nutrition can have on mood. Click on the links below to learn more.
Now that you have learned about nutrition and its effects on depression, move on to the next section to learn about which herbs and supplements can be effective.
Several B-vitamins (vitamin B12 and vitamin B6 especially) play a role in neurotransmitter formation. Although a recent study showed no effect of vitamin B6, B12, and folate on levels of depression in elderly men, that study may not have been powered to detect differences between the vitamin and placebo groups (Ford).
Another study did show a benefit of using vitamin B6 in pre-menopausal women with hormone related depression (Williams AL). A high-quality B-vitamin complex with 50 to 100 mg (or mcg of B12) of each B-vitamin may thus be indicated and has little risk in patients with depression.
Folate (vitamin B9) has been shown to augment response to SSRIs. 400-500 micgrograms per day has few side effects and should be considered for patients who do not respond well to medication, or for those with either low serum folate or high homocysteine levels (Coppen).
At least one trial has shown benefits of high dose inositol (vitamin B8) (Levine). Starting at a standard dose of 500 mg and titrating up to a max of 12 g is not unreasonable in difficult to manage depression.
