What is the link between vitamin B-12 and depression? Are there other vitamins, herbs, and supplements that can help with mood swings and enhance overall well-being? Let’s dive into the research.

The Role of Vitamin B-12 in Mood Regulation

Vitamin B-12, also known as cobalamin, is an essential nutrient that plays a crucial role in the body’s neurological and psychological functions. Numerous studies have suggested a potential link between vitamin B-12 deficiency and the development of depression.

One study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that individuals with low levels of vitamin B-12 were more likely to experience symptoms of depression, including feelings of sadness, irritability, and fatigue. The researchers hypothesized that this connection may be due to the nutrient’s involvement in the production of neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and dopamine, which are known to regulate mood.

Another study, conducted by researchers at the University of Michigan, observed that elderly participants with vitamin B-12 deficiency were more than twice as likely to be diagnosed with depression compared to those with adequate levels of the vitamin. The study suggested that addressing B-12 deficiency could potentially improve mood and cognitive function in this population.

Other Mood-Enhancing Supplements

While vitamin B-12 has shown promise in supporting mood, there are several other vitamins, herbs, and supplements that have been studied for their potential mood-enhancing properties.

St. John’s Wort

One of the most widely studied and commonly used herbal remedies for mood disorders is St. John’s wort. This yellow-flowered plant contains various chemical compounds that may have medicinal effects. Although the evidence is mixed, some studies have suggested that St. John’s wort may be helpful in treating mild to moderate depression.

SAM-e

SAM-e (S-Adenosyl-L-Methionine) is a naturally occurring compound derived from an amino acid that has been widely studied for its potential mood-enhancing effects. Research has indicated that SAM-e may be as effective as some prescription antidepressants in treating certain types of depression.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids, found in cold-water fish and certain vegetable oils, have been studied for their potential benefits in supporting mental health. Some research suggests that omega-3 supplements may be helpful in reducing symptoms of depression and other mood disorders.

B Vitamins

B vitamins, including B-12, are essential for maintaining the health of the central nervous system and supporting cell metabolism. Experts recommend ensuring adequate intake of a B-complex vitamin or multivitamin to help stabilize nerve cell membranes and potentially improve mood.

Vitamin D

While the evidence is not as strong, some studies have reported potential benefits of vitamin D in treating seasonal affective disorder, a form of depression that occurs during the winter months.

Considerations and Precautions

It’s important to note that while these supplements show promise, the evidence is not conclusive, and more research is needed. Additionally, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen, as they can interact with prescription medications and have potential side effects.

In the case of St. John’s wort, for example, it is known to interact with a wide variety of prescription drugs, including birth control pills, antidepressants, HIV medications, and blood thinners. This can potentially lower the effectiveness of certain medications or increase the risk of side effects.

Integrating Supplements with Lifestyle Changes

While supplements can be a helpful addition to a mood-enhancing regimen, it’s important to note that they should not replace other evidence-based treatments, such as therapy, counseling, and in some cases, prescription medication. Experts often recommend a comprehensive approach that combines supplements with lifestyle factors like exercise, a healthy diet, and stress management techniques.

By taking a holistic approach and working closely with a healthcare provider, individuals struggling with mood disorders may be able to find a combination of treatments and supplements that can effectively support their overall mental well-being.

Ongoing Research and Future Directions

As research continues to explore the connections between nutrition, supplements, and mental health, our understanding of the most effective mood-enhancing strategies is likely to evolve. It’s important to stay informed and to work closely with healthcare professionals to find the right approach for individual needs and preferences.

In the meantime, the existing evidence suggests that paying attention to vitamin B-12 levels, as well as exploring other potentially beneficial supplements, may be a worthwhile consideration for those seeking to support their mood and overall mental well-being.

Herbs, Vitamins, and Supplements Used to Enhance Mood

In this Article

Mood problems, including depression and bipolar disorder, are no laughing matter. More than 20 million American adults have a mood disorder and 40 million an anxiety disorder. And these numbers don’t include the average worrywart or person who suffers an occasional bout of the blues.

For depression alone, the annual cost for treatment and lost wages may be as high as $52 billion.

With these statistics, it’s no wonder that many people are searching for mood supplements or other mood-enhancing alternatives to drugs.

The Need for Mood Enhancers

“For so many people, antidepressant medication either stops working or has too many side effects,” says Henry Emmons, MD, a psychiatrist with the Center for Spirituality and Healing at the University of Minnesota. Emmons, author of The Chemistry of Joy: A Three-Step Program for Overcoming Depression through Western Science and Eastern Wisdom, prescribes medications for his patients, but he also highly recommends exercise and good nutrition as physical treatments for depression, combined with a few targeted mood supplements.

Which leads to the question: what vitamins, herbs, supplements, and lifestyle changes are the best mood enhancers?

The experts we talked to didn’t reach complete consensus; more research is clearly needed for the plentiful options available. But here is a brief overview of some of the more common complementary approaches used to treat mood problems.

Of course, if you suffer from severe mood problems see a doctor — before you reach for mood enhancers or supplements.

Mood Supplements with Potential

One of the most touted herbs used for enhancing mood is St. John’s wort, a yellow-flowered plant containing many chemical compounds that may have medicinal effects.

“Even though the evidence is mixed, it’s better for St. John’s wort than for other herbs,” says Adriane Fugh-Berman, MD, associate professor, Complementary and Alternative Medicine Master’s Program, Department of Physiology and Biophysics at Georgetown University School of Medicine. Fugh-Berman says that trials in the U. S. have been oddly less positive than in Germany, where it is widely prescribed.

SAMe (S-Adenosyl-L-Methionine), derived from an amino acid and also available from protein food sources, is another widely studied mood-enhancing substance that’s commonly used in Europe, Fugh-Berman tells WebMD.

Though the data is less solid, other potential mood enhancers include:

• Valerian: an herbal remedy created from dried roots, often taken as a sleep aid and sometimes used for anxiety.
• Lavender: aromatherapy, essential oils, and teas use lavender to enhance relaxation and possibly help relieve anxiety and depression.
• Omega-3 fatty acids: found in cold-water fish and certain vegetable oils, and available as a supplement, omega-3 fatty acids are sometimes used to help depression and other psychological problems. Emmons recommends a dose of 2,000 to 4,000 milligrams or more when taken for mood problems.
• B vitamins: essential for cell metabolism and central nervous system maintenance. Emmons recommends a good B-complex or multivitamin to ensure plenty of B vitamins, which can help stabilize nerve cell membranes.
• Vitamin D: although not enough evidence exists to make any claims about the effectiveness of vitamin D as a mood enhancer, at least one study reported benefits from vitamin D in treating seasonal affective disorder, a form of depression that occurs during the winter months.

St. John’s Wort

Around for centuries, St. John’s wort is commonly used today for sleep disorders, anxiety, and mild to moderate depression. However, an analysis of 37 clinical trials found that St. John’s wort may have minimal to no benefit for those with more severe forms of depression.

Although more research is needed, St. John’s wort may also have the potential to reduce symptoms of anxiety, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), or perimenopausal mood changes.

Available as capsules, tablets, liquid extracts, and teas, a typical dose of St. John’s wort ranges from 900 to 1,200 milligrams a day, and it should be taken for at least one to three months, just as with pharmaceutical anti-depressants, to see the best effect.

St. John’s wort does have the potential for serious interactions with a wide variety of prescription drugs, including birth control pills, antidepressants, HIV medications, and blood thinners. It can also interact with other herbs or supplements. Mainly, it may lower the effectiveness of certain medications, Fugh-Berman tells WebMD. St. John’s wort may also lead to an increase in side effects when taken with pharmaceutical antidepressants.

Consult a doctor or pharmacist about interactions before using St. John’s wort. Although uncommon, side effects of St. John’s wort may include:

• Gastrointestinal upset
• Skin reactions, especially when exposed to sun
• Fatigue
• Anxiety
• Sexual dysfunction
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Dry mouth

SAMe(S-Adenosyl-L-Methionine)

SAMe has been studied a lot for depression. Although current trials are not conclusive, an analysis of 28 studies showed that SAMe produced statistically significant improvement in the symptoms of depression when compared to a placebo. Some studies have shown that improvements were comparable to conventional antidepressants, such as the class of medications called tricyclic antidepressants.

Emmons suggests SAMe for those with a type of depression that produces low energy. He prescribes 400 to 800 milligrams daily, depending upon need or tolerance. The dose most often used for depression in clinical studies is 800 to 1,600 milligrams daily for up to 6 weeks.

Although SAMe usually causes few problems, you should use caution if you have diabetes, low blood sugar, or an anxiety or other type of psychiatric disorder. Gastrointestinal problems, headaches, fatigue, and skin rashes are the most common side effects.

Mood Enhancers That May Be Unsafe

Kava kava. A ceremonial beverage used commonly in the Pacific Islands, kava kava earned its claim to fame as an herb that’s very helpful for anxiety. Unfortunately, kava kava has largely fallen out of favor because concentrated forms for sale in the U.S. have been associated with a rare risk of significant liver problems.

According to the FDA, you should consult a doctor before using kava if you have liver disease or are taking drugs that affect the liver. Likewise, you should see your doctor if you experience any signs of liver illness after taking a kava supplement.

5-HTP. This is a precursor to a neurotransmitter called serotonin. Although some health care providers recommend it for mood problems, others are more cautious. “It is not clear whether 5-HTP is immune from the same problems L-tryptophan had,” Fugh-Berman tells WebMD, referring to an amino acid that was taken off the market in 1989 due to a dangerous contaminant. This concern has been largely disputed, and 5-HTP is generally considered safe, and effective for depression when taken at 150-300 milligrams daily.

As you evaluate other mood supplements, keep in mind that the FDA does not strictly regulate herbs and supplements; it treats them like foods rather than drugs. The makers of supplements don’t have to show their products are safe or effective before selling them on the market.

This makes it harder for you to assess their strength, purity, and safety. Fugh-Berman advises doing your own research on effectiveness and adverse effects, using reliable, unbiased sources, and by consulting groups that independently evaluate dietary supplements.

Lifestyle Changes for Enhancing Your Mood

“If you look at the research on exercise for depression, it’s equal to or better than medication for depression — probably the best outright alternative treatment for depression,” says Emmons, who often recommends mild, rhythmic activities such as walking, biking, or jogging. “It may not be enough for a lot of people, but it’s a good place to start.”

Reporting in a February 2008 issue of Cerebral Cortex, German researchers described PET scans and recently available chemicals they used to prove that running does, in fact, release mood-enhancing endorphins. The more released, the greater the effect.

How much exercise is enough to enhance mood? Three hours of moderate activity per week may do the trick, according to a study published in the January 2005 American Journal of Preventive Medicine.

Emmons also strongly recommends a variety of stress management techniques, such as learning meditation to self-regulate thoughts, called mindfulness.

“People with recurring depression tend to get triggered very quickly — almost like a track is laid down, a slippery slope,” he says. “It pays to put some real effort into learning to recognize this immediately and to learn ways to steady yourself.”

Even certain computer games can help create more positive thought patterns. Based on scientifically tested tools published in the journal of the American Psychological Association, MindHabits is one example. It helps players reduce stress and boost esteem by training the mind to refocus the way it perceives the world.

© 2008 WebMD, LLC. All rights reserved.

SOURCES:

Adriane Fugh-Berman, MD, associate professor, Complementary and Alternative Medicine Master’s Program, department of physiology and biophysics, Georgetown University School of Medicine.
Henry Emmons, MD, psychiatrist, Center for Spirituality and Healing, University of Minnesota.
The National Institute of Mental Health Web site: “The Numbers Count: Mental Disorders in America.”
Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality Web site: “S-Adenosyl-L-Methionine for Treatment of Depression, Osteoarthritis, and Liver Disease.”
National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine Web site: “Get the Facts: St. John’s Wort and Depression,” “Herbs at a Glance: Lavender.”
MedlinePlus Web site: “Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia Miller),” “St. John’s wort (Hypericum perforatum L.),” “Kava (Piper methysticum G. Forst).”
Kasper, S. et al. BMC Medicine, 2006; vol 4: pp 14. 
Geller, S. et al. Menopause, May-June 2007; vol 14: pp 541–549.
NIH Office of Dietary Supplements Web site: “FDA Issues Consumer Advisory for Dietary Supplements Containing Kava.”
Boecker, H. et al. Cerebral Cortex, 2008; vol 18: pp 2523-2531.
Dunn, A.L. et al. American Journal of Preventive Medicine, 2005; vol 28, Issue 1, pp 1-8.
Dandeneau, S. et al. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, October 2007; vol 93: pp 651-666. 
Papakostas, G. The Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, 2009; vol 70, Suppl 5: pp 18-22.
Turner, E. Pharmacology & Therapeutics, 2006; vol 109: pp 325-338.

Vitamins for Depression That Could Boost Your Mood

A diet deficient in key vitamins and nutrients might be to blame for bouts of bad moods. Here are some of the most important supplements for those dealing with symptoms of anxiety, depression, stress, or other mood-sabotaging condition.

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Vitamin D

According to the Mayo Clinic, how much vitamin D your skin makes depends on a few things. Some factors include the season, your skin pigmentation, the time of day, and where you live. “Depending on where you live and your lifestyle, vitamin D production might decrease or be completely absent during the winter months,” the Mayo Clinic notes. As a result, you may be vitamin D deficient. “There are a large number of receptors for vitamin D in the brain, indicating that it plays a role in cognitive function,” explains naturopathic doctor Amanda Frick, director of medical affairs for Thorne Research in South Carolina. She recommends a dose of daily sun exposure (after applying sunscreen) for at least 20 minutes each day. Or, she says you can take 2,000 IU daily of vitamin D supplements.

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Omega 3s

Omega-3 fatty acids play an important role in brain health. They’re especially beneficial when it comes to improving symptoms of depression, cognitive functioning, and overall mood. Add more omega-3s in your diet by eating fatty fish like mackerel, salmon, and herring. It’s also in nuts and seeds like almonds, walnuts, chia seeds, and flax seeds. If eating fish isn’t your thing, fish oil pills are a great supplement. Acupuncture physician Elizabeth Trattner, who is also a certified doctor of oriental medicine and acupuncture with a private practice in Florida, suggests at least 2000 mgs of two key kinds of omega 3s: DHA and EPA. “Make sure to read labels carefully as you can have high amounts of omega 3s, but not EPA and DHA,” she says. “I like to see at least 650 mg of DHA and 1200 mg of EPA in an omega supplement.”

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Vitamin B6

Also known as pyridoxine, vitamin B6 plays an important role in physical and psychological body functions. It’s especially vital for nerve functioning. It may also help improve some neuropsychiatric disorders like depression. “B6 is highly involved in the metabolism of estrogens, so deficiency can be highly related to PMS and hormonal imbalance depression,” explains Frick. “The birth control pill depletes B vitamins, especially B6, so supplementation is highly recommended for those taking the pill.” She recommends 25 mg daily. You may need more if you’re on the pill.

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Vitamin B3

Niacin, aka vitamin B3, is involved in the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that enables brain cells and other nervous system cells to communicate. Too little serotonin could play a role in depression. But taking vitamin B3 may help maintain its levels.  In other words, a deficiency in B3 can impair levels of serotonin and negatively impact mood. Frick recommends a dose of 20 mg daily for those dealing with depressive symptoms. However, if you have severe depression, speak to your doctor about a higher dose. “Niacin may cause flushing which some people find very uncomfortable, and may wish to use a non-flushing niacin format,” she adds. These are some natural energy boosters you that might change your life.

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Vitamin B12

This vitamin has been known to boost mood and energy and reduce depression, explains Sally Warren, PhD, a naturopathic doctor at Metro Integrative Pharmacy in New York City. “Taking a good B-complex daily (at least 10 mg) can help with ensuring good levels are maintained,” she says. It’s especially helpful if you’re vegan or vegetarian, she adds. In terms of food sources, she says B12 is highest in beef liver, sardines, mackerel, lamb. It’s also in eggs, feta cheese, and cottage cheese.

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Folate

This necessary nutrient, which also goes by the name of folic acid or vitamin B9, helps the body in the creation of new cells. This is one of the reasons it’s so important for pregnant women to get their fair share. In fact, pregnant women experiencing a vitamin B9 deficiency are at risk for delivering a baby with neural tube defects such as anencephaly and spina bifida. Additionally, a deficiency can cause depression. “Folic acid can help synthesize serotonin, which is a neurotransmitter involved in mood regulation,” says Kerri Axelrod, a certified holistic health and wellness counselor and yoga instructor at Kerri Axelrod Wellness in Boston. Aim for 400 mcg per day of folic acid, which is the recommended dosage from the National Institutes of Health.

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Magnesium

Magnesium helps with relaxation, muscle tension, and constipation. It also plays a key role in the productions of brain hormones, explains Trattner. According to the National Institutes of Health, magnesium-rich foods include almonds, spinach, cashews, avocado, and black beans. However, they also state that supplements can help boost low levels. Consider taking a supplement of 320 to 450 mg daily, especially at night to help with insomnia, suggests  Warren.

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Vitamin C

“Studies have shown a significant reduction in anxiety and depression when sufficient levels of C were taken, either by diet or supplements,” says Warren. One small study, published in a 2018 issue of the journal Antioxidants, assessed vitamin C levels among men aged 18-35 years. It noted that “high vitamin C status may be associated with improved overall mood in young adult males.” However, vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin. Therefore, the body doesn’t store this vitamin. So be sure to take it regularly to ensure regular healthy levels. Doing so may boost your mood and result in a host of other health benefits. She recommends a minimum of 100 mg daily and no more than 2000 mg per day. Any more than that may cause diarrhea.

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Iron

Some of the biggest signs of an iron deficiency are low energy, chronic fatigue, and mood changes. Do these these common symptoms sound familiar to you? You might be one of the almost 10 percent of women or 2 percent of men who suffer from a deficiency. “The RDA of iron is 18 mg for women of childbearing years and 25 mg for pregnant women, so I like to recommend a supplement that can be split in half or one that is around 9 mg taken twice a day,” says Trattner. “By breaking up iron doses, it keeps bowels moving smoother.” This may help constipation and in turn, boost your mood. Some foods are iron-rich, too. A few include include liver, animal protein, spinach, lentils, some soy foods, and fortified cereals and milks.

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Chromium

Humans require a very small amount of this metallic element, though anywhere from 25 to 50 percent of U. S. adults are mildly deficient in it. “Chromium helps balance our blood sugar level which, in turn, stabilizes our mood,” explains Trattner. “It also helps regulate serotonin, melatonin and other brain chemicals.” If you’re consuming chromium in a supplement, she recommends 200 mcg. However, it’s also in animal protein and potatoes.

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L-theanine

This superstar amino acid may increase serotonin levels and boost alpha waves in the brain, explains Trattner. The easiest way she recommends getting a healthy dose is by drinking matcha, the purest form of green tea known for its high levels of antioxidants and other amazing benefits. “Matcha has one of the highest ORAC ratings in the plant kingdom and is a whole vegetal drink as opposed to green tea which is fermented leaves,” she says. “One cup of good organic matcha can have you feeling great immediately.” ORAC stands for “Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity. ” The acronym refers to the antioxidant capacity in different foods. If you have a caffeine sensitivity, avoid matcha and drink decaffeinated green tea instead.

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St. John’s wort

According to Daniel Kellman, a naturopathic doctor and the director of Naturopathic Support and Rehabilitation Services at Cancer Treatment Centers of America (CTCA) in Atlanta, GA, St. John’s Wort is one of the most popular natural antidepressants. “Its mechanism mirrors the action of pharmaceutical antidepressants like SSRI’s (think Prozac and Paxil) and some evidence shows it to be effective, while other studies don’t show benefit,” he says. “While St. John’s Wort may be effective in some individuals, it also can have similar side effects of conventional drug therapy.” Be sure to speak to your physician before taking it. It may cause issues when taken in conjunction with blood thinners, cholesterol medicines, and many other prescription drugs.

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Sources

• Elizabeth Trattner, acupuncture physician, Florida.
• Amanda Frick, naturopathic doctor and director of medical affairs for Thorne Research in South Carolina.
• Sally Warren, PhD, naturopathic doctor, Metro Integrative Pharmacy, New York City.
• Kerri Axelrod, certified holistic health and wellness counselor and yoga instructor, Kerri Axelrod Wellness, Boston.
• Daniel Kellman, naturopathic doctor and director of Naturopathic Support and Rehabilitation Services at Cancer Treatment Centers of America (CTCA), Atlanta. 
• National Institutes of Health: “Magnesium: Fact Sheet for Health Professionals.”
• Antioxidants: “High Vitamin C Status Is Associated with Elevated Mood in Male Tertiary Students.”
• Mayo Clinic: “Vitamin D”

Originally Published: August 20, 2018

Jenn Sinrich

Jenn Sinrich is an experienced digital and social editor in New York City. She’s written for several publications including SELF, Women’s Health, Fitness, Parents, American Baby, Ladies’ Home Journal and more.She covers various topics from health, fitness and food to pregnancy and parenting. In addition to writing, Jenn also volunteers with Ed2010, serving as the deputy director to Ed’s Buddy System, a program that pairs recent graduates with young editors to give them a guide to the publishing industry and to navigating New York.When she’s not busy writing, editing or reading, she’s enjoying and discovering the city she’s always dreamed of living in with her loving fiancé, Dan, and two feline friends, Janis and Jimi. Visit her website: Jenn Sinrich.

8 basic nutrients for a good mood | Health

With a decrease in daylight hours, drowsiness appears, mood drops and it becomes difficult to concentrate. Sometimes these symptoms can be a sign of seasonal depression, which eight basic micronutrients can help with.

Short daylight hours and the natural biorhythms of the Earth in autumn activate changes in the body – the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that plays a major role in the “feeling of joy”, decreases. At the same time, the production of melatonin, the sleep hormone, increases, which is manifested by drowsiness.

People with low vitamin D levels and other deficiencies are at higher risk. The same group includes those who go to bed late, experience prolonged stress or malnourished.

What should you pay attention to in order to support yourself?

With a tendency to depressive disorders, ailments such as irritability and fatigue, difficulty falling asleep, a predisposition to anemia, the need for stimulants such as caffeine, deterioration of nails, hair and skin, require attention.

From a nutritional point of view, health should be checked for nutritional deficiencies. At the first sign of blues, it is worth paying attention to eight basic micronutrients.

IODINE is needed for the functioning of the thyroid gland, which, in turn, stimulates metabolism, tissue respiration and regulates body temperature. The daily dosage of iodine for an adult is 150 mcg. For digestibility, it is important to take iodine together with selenium until the symptoms disappear, but not more than three months, since it has the ability to accumulate.

SELENIUM is an antioxidant and is taken with iodine and vitamin C. The recommended intake for adults is 50-70 micrograms per day. If you choose selenium in preparations, opt for selenomethionine, as it is well absorbed.

VITAMIN D reduces inflammation, helps the body absorb calcium and phosphorus, affects mood and memory. The recommended amount for an adult is 600-800 IU per day. In case of deficiency, adults can take from 1000 to 4000 IU (selected individually according to the result of the analysis of 25OH). Prefer the fat-soluble form of the vitamin in gelatin capsules.

MAGNESIUM is responsible for the functioning of the nervous system, affects pressure, muscle relaxation, blood sugar and sleep quality. Due to the poor content in food, most people are deficient in magnesium. For prevention, you can take magnesium in the form of magnesium citrate 300 mg per day half an hour before bedtime. According to the indications, the dosage can be doubled. To increase the digestibility of the trace element, manufacturers combine magnesium with vitamin B6. Magnesium bioactive supplements from Now Foods and Solgar have proven themselves well. An alternative option is to use Epsom bath salts at the rate of 400-500 grams per bath for an adult. A course of 10 baths will bring back peace!

B VITAMINS . With a lack of these vitamins, fatigue, nervous irritation, irascibility are felt, immunity and mood decrease.

B2 is essential for the creation of new nerve cells and the maturation of red blood cells. B3, or niacin, promotes the absorption of tryptophan, which helps maintain a good mood. B5, or pantothenic acid, helps the adrenal glands, which indirectly increases stress resistance. B6 is necessary for the absorption of magnesium, and most of all it is found in pine nuts. B12 is rapidly consumed in pregnant and lactating women, and its deficiency contributes to postpartum depression and fatigue. Many vegetarians are at risk of not receiving this vitamin.

Vitamin B complex will help you recharge your batteries in late autumn. Thorne Research and Now Foods have quality complex supplements.

ZINC along with magnesium is an “antidepressant” and is used in recovery from depression. Zinc supports the release of cortisol and regulates the response to stress. It is indispensable for insufficiency of thyroid function. Zinc does not accumulate in the body, so you need to ensure its daily intake with food or in the form of dietary supplements. The WHO recommended allowance is 11 mg per day for men and 8 mg (up to 30 mg as prescribed) for women. The following forms are well absorbed: lactate, citrate, gluconate, picolinate, chelate (glycinate), acetate.

IRON . Low ferritin and hemoglobin in the tests indicate that there is anemia, and the iron depot is almost empty. Anemia in itself gives characteristic symptoms: fatigue, increased heart rate, weakness in the muscles, lack of oxygen, dizziness, etc. If this condition has already appeared, then changes in the diet will not be enough and you need to start taking supplements. In case of severe anemia, the doctor or consultant selects the form and dose. For adults, you can choose the liquid form of the drug “-Floradix” (in 10 ml – 7.5 mg of iron) or capsules from Solgar. Take iron along with protein foods and vitamin C. Iron can accumulate in the body, so you should drink it in courses of 3-6 months, depending on the appointments.

OMEGA-3 . According to the study, omega-3 supplementation is part of the recovery scheme for fatigued adrenal syndrome due to cortisol levels. For mood swings and depression, you can take 2-4 g per day (depending on weight and food quality) until the condition improves. Aerobic exercise helps to enhance the effect of omega-3.

To get the most benefit from vitamins and supplements, they must be properly absorbed. The main factors affecting digestibility are the state of the gastrointestinal tract, the quality and form of supplements, and the time they are taken. At the first signs of blues, in addition to supplements, you should pay attention to the three pillars of health and emotional well-being: sleep patterns, physical activity, and a balanced diet.

Be healthy!

What to drink if everything infuriates? Five legal remedies that will help you find Zen

How it works: B vitamins are like a soft pillow for the nervous system. If you live in a mode of lack of sleep and stress, vitamin B (especially B6) neutralizes hysterical states, relieves anxiety and stress, and improves thought processes. It will also have a beneficial effect on blood pressure, the fluctuations of which often accompany stress.

Tension of the nervous system leads to malfunction of many body functions. Including problems with the skin, nails, hair. B vitamins are also called “beauty vitamins”: they are able to “remove” irritation and itching, a feeling of tight skin, and have a general rejuvenating effect.

How to take: courses, as directed by a physician. It is better to start the course in advance if you know that work, emergency work and stress are coming soon.

How it works: no need to wince! First, fish oil has long been made in capsules, which neutralizes its taste (for those who hate it since childhood). Secondly, fish oil is a unique, affordable, over-the-counter remedy that will turn you back from a “bunch of nerves” into a person.

• See also: 15 vitamins with a high but justified price tag. Should I take it?

Fish oil is obtained from cod, mackerel, herring. The “magic ingredient” in it is Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids. The body is not able to produce them on its own, but they are vital to it: for normal metabolic processes, the work of the heart and blood vessels, immunity and calmness of the nervous system. In addition, fish oil is rich in zinc, iron, phosphorus, vitamins A and D. They are our protection against stress and disorders.

How to take: daily as a prophylactic (if there are no contraindications).

How it works: ask the applicants who crowd around the building of the university on the days of the entrance exams – every second will say that his mother gives him “glycine” for the brain and nerves.

Glycine increases mental performance, eliminates depressive disorders and irritability. The tablets also contain vitamins B1, B2, and B6.

• You may also be interested in: Medications and tips for sessions and deadlines

How to take: during periods of stress, work deadlines as a maintenance remedy.

How it works: in the indications for the use of “Novo-Passit” says that he is struggling with the “manager’s syndrome” – constant mental stress, the inability to distract and relax. As part of these funds – extracts of valerian, St. John’s wort, lemon balm, hawthorn. Before pills were invented, people were forced to collect and dry these herbs themselves, and then brew them and drink them as a sedative. Modern medicine has simplified this process.

• How does medicine respond to remote work? Read: Remote work kills: 10 threats to your health when working from home Take at peak moments of stress, when it seems that there is no more strength to endure it.

  How it works: The active ingredient in this drug is the hormone melatonin, which regulates sleep and wake cycles. Stress “shatters” the nervous system and often leads to problems with falling asleep: you lie in bed for hours, sorting out tomorrow’s affairs in your head. Melatonin solves this problem. At the same time, it does not inhibit the production of the natural sleep hormone.

  How to take: for sleep problems – long falling asleep, restless sleep with frequent awakenings.

  Important: pharmacy products are not a panacea! What will help solve the problem, not mask it?

  Doctor , general surgeon, specialist in sports and medical medicine, Alexander Mudretsov answers:

  “Means from this list can only correct the state of the nervous system, but they are not a panacea. The best medicine that will bring back love for people – unless we are talking about a specific mental illness – will be a regime, 8 hours of sleep, walks in the fresh air and sports. In addition, planning will help in the fight against stress. Often stress happens due to the fact that a person put off solving things for later: once they fell down at one moment and caused an overstrain. Such situations should be avoided.