10 Natural Antidepressants
Antidepressant #9: Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12 is a vitamin that is water soluble. It can be naturally found in foods, as a supplement, or prescribed by health professionals. Vitamin B12 is vital as it is required for proper neurological function, red blood cell formation, and synthesis of DNA. It also functions as a cofactor for different enzymes.
Usually bound to protein in food, it is released through the activity of gastric protease and hydrochloric acid. Studies have found low levels of vitamin B12 among patients with depression. Others observed that treatment of depression may improve with high vitamin B12 levels. The current recommended dietary allowance for vitamin B12 is 2.4 micrograms daily. Vitamin B12 can be found in meat, fish, milk, and eggs.
Advertisement
