Studies of patients with major depressive disorder have found that duration and severity of depressive episode is inversely correlated with levels of folic acid--an important vitamin. The lower the level of folic acid, the longer and more severe the episode.1,2 Another study found that individuals with low folic acid levels were not only more likely to experience depression--they were also less likely to respond to antidepressant treatment with a pharmaceutical drug.3

Deficiencies of various B-complex vitamins have also been strongly implicated in depression.4 Researchers have found a connection between levels of B12 and the age at which depression symptoms may begin to appear.1 B-12 deficiencies are also linked with poorer cognitive performance in individuals with depression.5 Vitamin B-6 is important in the metabolism of neurotransmitters such as dopamine and serotonin. A double-blind, placebo-controlled study found that augmenting
antidepressant treatment with B-complex vitamins resulted in improved mood and cognitive ability in geriatric patients with depression.6

B-6, B-12, and folic acid are also crucial in methione metabolism. Deficiencies can promote depression by lowering levels of S-adenosyl methione.

Two tests are available for testing of nutrient deficiencies . 1. The Spectra Nutrient Analysis and 2. The NutriEval examine levels of 17 crucial vitamins using serum and plasma samples, revealing possible deficiencies of B12 and folic acid. This can be vital for revealing contributing factors in depression, as well as monitoring efficacy of vitamin supplementation.

References:

1 Levitt AJ, Joffe RT. Folate, B12, and life course of depressive illness. Biol Psychiatr 1989 25(7):867-872.

2 Abou-Saleh MT, Coppen A. Serum and red blood cell folate in depression. Acta Psychiatr Scand 1989;80(1):78-82.

3 Fava M, Borus JS, Alpert JE, Nierenberg AA, Rosenbaum JF, Bottiglieri T. Am J Psychiatr 1997;154(3):426-428.

4 Bell IR, Edman JS, Morrow FD, Marby DW, Miarges S, Perrone G, et. al. B complex vitamin patterns in geriatric and young adult patients with major depression. J Am Geriatr Soc 1991;39(3):252-7.

5 Bell IR, Edman JS, Miller J, Hebben N, Linn RT, Ray D, Kayne HL. Relationship of normal serum vitamin B12 and folate levels to cognitive test performance in subtypes of geriatric major depression. J Geriatr
Psychiatry Neurol 1990;3(2):98-105.

6 Bell IR, Edman JS, Morrow FD, Marby DW, Perrone G, et. al. Brief communication. Vitamin B1, B2, and B6 augmentation of tricyclic antidepressant treatment in
geriatric depression with cognitive dysfunction. J Am Coll Nutr 1992;11(2):159-163.

Call to set up a nutritional consultation so that tests can be performed and a comprehensive strategy of lifestyle, dietary modification and nutrient supplementation can be implemented to aid you in reversing this disorder.

For an appointment, contact our office at: 800-956-7083 and visit our web site www.completehealthinstitute.com go to lab tests and click on appropriate test for information.

Dr. Rispoli, Ph.D., L Ac. has had a clinical practice for over 20 years. Her programs work because she is so thorough in testing and providing a nutritional approach. Remember that the body can heal itself if given the proper nutrients.

The information herein is not intended as diagnosis, treatment or a cure. Should you have a medical condition please seek the advice of your medical doctor.