5 Facts About the Best Nutritional Supplements for Mental Health
•Posted on June 28 2023
Key Takeaway:
- Omega-3 fatty acids supplements can help alleviate symptoms of depression, anxiety, and ADHD by reducing inflammation in the brain and regulating neurotransmitter function.
- Vitamin D supplements can improve mood, reduce symptoms of depression, and may even prevent mental health disorders such as schizophrenia by reducing inflammation and promoting brain health.
- B vitamins supplements, specifically B6, B9, and B12, are essential for proper brain function and can help alleviate symptoms of depression, anxiety, and memory loss.
5 Facts About the Best Nutritional Supplements for Mental Health
✅ Vitamin B complex helps boost mental health, and its deficiency can negatively affect memory function, causing cognitive impairment and dementia. (Source: Team Research)
✅ Folic acid, found in green leafy vegetables, citrus fruits, beans, fortified bread, and cereals, helps make healthy red blood cells and has been linked to relief in women with depression when combined with antidepressants. (Source: Team Research)
✅ Vitamin B1, or thiamin, plays a role in converting glucose into energy and is associated with memory loss, anxiety, depression, irritability, and insomnia when deficient. (Source: Team Research)
✅ Vitamin B12, found in animal products like fish, lean meat, poultry, eggs, and low-fat and fat-free milk, is key in forming red blood cells and its deficiency is linked with mood swings, paranoia, confusion, and dementia. (Source: Team Research)
✅ Vitamin D, naturally obtained from the sun, is important for brain development and its deficiency has been linked with active mood disorder and depression. (Source: Team Research)
FAQs about Best Nutritional Supplements For Mental Health
What are some essential vitamins and nutrients for mental health?
Brain-boosting nutrients, Omega-3 fatty acids, B vitamins, Vitamin D, Amino acids, Probiotics, Magnesium, Zinc, Selenium, and Antioxidants have all been linked to mental wellbeing and cognitive health. These nutrients are important for mood enhancement, anxiety reduction, stress management, mental clarity, and neurotransmitter support.
Where can I find vitamins and nutrients that are good for mental health in my diet?
You can find these essential vitamins and nutrients in various foods such as green leafy vegetables, citrus fruits, beans, fortified bread, cereals, fish, lean meat, poultry, eggs, low-fat and fat-free milk, and herbal remedies.
Do vitamins play a role in treating mental illnesses?
Healthcare practitioners acknowledge the therapeutic value of dietary intervention in addressing depression and other psychological disorders. While vitamin deficiency has been linked to mental health problems, it is important to note that vitamin supplements cannot replace mental illness treatment medication.
Is nutrition therapy a viable alternative to medical treatments for mental health issues?
Nutrition therapy can be an effective complementary approach to treating mental health issues. However, medical treatments are still the primary form of treatment for mental illnesses. Always consult with a professional before taking any supplements if you are concerned about your mental health.
Can alcohol, cigarette smoking, refined sugars, and caffeine affect mental health?
Reducing or avoiding the intake of alcohol, cigarette smoking, refined sugars, and caffeine may help to maintain good mental health. These substances can negatively impact mental clarity, mood, and can make mental health issues worse.
Should I consult with a doctor before taking any dietary supplements?
Yes, you should consult with your doctor before taking any dietary supplements, especially if you are concerned about your mental health or currently taking prescribed medication for your condition. This can minimize the risk of developing other health issues.