Below is a list of vitamins that can be very beneficial for people suffering from depression.
* Vitamin B1 (thiamine): The brain uses this vitamin to help convert glucose into fuel, and without it the brain rapidly runs out of energy. This can lead to fatigue, depression, irritability, anxiety, and even thoughts of suicide.
* Vitamin B3 (niacin): Pellagra-which produces psychosis and dementia, among other symptoms-was eventually found to be caused by niacin deficiency.
* Vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid): Vitamin B5 is needed for hormone formation and the uptake of amino acids and the brain chemical acetylcholine, which combine to prevent certain types of depression.
* Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine): Aids in the processing of amino acids, which are the building blocks of all proteins and certain hormones. It’s necessary in the manufacture of serotonin, melatonin and dopamine.
* Vitamin B12: Because vitamin B12 is important to red blood cell formation, deficiency leads to an oxygen-transport problem known as pernicious anemia. This disorder can cause a variety of depression related symptoms including mood swings, paranoia, irritability, confusion, dementia, hallucinations and mania.
* Vitamin C: Subclinical deficiencies of this vitamin can produce depression, which requires the use of supplements.
However, it is always best to discuss the addition of any vitamins to your diet with your doctor. Some vitamins may have an adverse reaction with certain medications whiich is why it’s imperative to discuss the matter with your doctor.
