Cure Depression With a Vitamin?

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Have you ever wondered if depression could be eased with an inexpensive over-the-counter supplement, no prescription required? Or how about extinguishing your chronic anxiety through more consumption of certain foods that contain natural stress-reducing ingredients? Read on, because I’ve got something for you that may be a pleasant shock!

Every day I see patients who want to do everything in their power to avoid mind-altering pharmaceutical drugs. This is especially true of women hoping to become pregnant or who already are. Among the tests I order to get a sense of my patients’ biology when they first come to see me is their level of vitamin B12. Is it low? If so, could it be the reason they are in my office to begin with?

Vitamin B12 Deficiency Has Long Been Implicated in the Development of Depression.

It’s one of the basic building blocks of life. And it’s one of the all-star antidepressants. We all need vitamin B12 to make red blood cells and nerve cell membranes and to regulate the expression of our DNA and multiple other brain and body-based functions. It protects the brain and nervous system, regulates rest and mood cycles, and keeps the immune system functioning properly. A severe deficiency can lead not only to deep depression, paranoia and delusions, and memory loss, but also incontinence, the loss of taste and smell, and, eventually, physical brain shrinkage and dementia.