While it is common for people to feel sad sometimes, there are those who feel extreme loneliness almost all the time and without root cause. If you are one of these people, then you may have what is called a depression. Depression is a mental condition associated with a lack of energy and difficulty in concentration. More than 16% of the entire American population experience depression but not all of them seek medical attention. Fortunately, there are over-the-counter vitamins for depression to help those who feel embarrassed to attend psychological sessions.

What is the relationship between vitamins and depression?

Depression is a mental condition characterized by a lack of neurological transmitters like erotonin, dopamine or norepinephrine. Recent studies conclude that one of the many reasons for depression is the high sugar content in the food we eat. Too much sweet causes insulin resistance and thereby resulting to an increase in the number of stress hormones. In addition, the American Journal of Public Health also established a strong relationship between depression and poverty as 1 in every 7 poor Americans is found to have depression.

Hence, the best and most effective way of combating extreme and prolonged sadness will be to have better nutrition plus the regular intake of vitamins for depression like the B-complex group.

Below is a list of the most commonly prescribed vitamins for depression.

1. Vitamin B1

Otherwise known as Thiamine, vitamin B1 is essential in the conversion of glucose into energy for the brain. Insufficient amounts of B1 can lead to depression, fatigue, anxiety and thoughts of suicide. Other side effects include gastrointestinal disorders, insomnia and memory problems.

2. Folic Acid

The reason why folic acid is given to pregnant women is because it is an essential vitamin for DNA synthesis. Commonly given with vitamin B12, folic acid helps prevent neurological deficiencies in fetuses.

3. Vitamin B12

This vitamin is important in the formation of red blood cells; and red blood cells are known carriers of oxygen to different parts of the body, including the brain. Vitamin B12 deficiency results in paranoia, irritability, mood swings, dizziness, heart palpitations and shortness of breath and so on. Old people are more prone to vitamin B12 deficiencies so their dosage is higher than what the young consume.

4. Niacin

Another one of the many vitamins for depression is vitamin B3, also called niacin. Its deficiency encourages the progression of Pellagra, the root cause of dementia and psychosis. Initial symptoms of niacin deficiency include anxiety, irritability and mental slowness.

5. Pantothenic Acid

Pantothenic acid is important for the formation of body hormones, absorption of amino acids and the production of acetylcholine, a brain chemical that helps fight depression. There isn’t enough supply of pantothenic acid, or B5, depression, anxiety and fatigue occur.

6. Vitamin B6 or Pyridoxine

Pyridoxine helps process amino acids as well as in the production of needed brain chemicals like serotonin, dopamine and melatonin. Vitamin B6 deficiency is common among women using oral contraceptives, alcoholics and those with kidney diseases. Symptoms of vitamin B6 deficiency include mental confusion and skin lesions.

Aside from the above-mentioned vitamins for depression, those with depression or have a tendency towards mental illness should also change their eating habits. Better nutrition is the number one cure to depression.

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Author Bio: Find more information about vitamins for depression. Shop online for discount vitamin supplements (e.g. New Chapter vitamins) at wholesale price.

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