Vitamins and Depression

Depression is a very serious and debilitating mental illness. Symptoms of depression include fatigue, irritability, feelings of extreme sadness, insomnia and in extreme cases, thoughts of suicide. Many people find that although taking prescription medications may help depression, unpleasant side effects occur that outweigh the benefits of antidepressants. The links between Niacin and Vitamin D for depression is a positive one, as taking ample amounts of certain vitamin supplements has been shown to reverse symptoms of depression.

Vitamin D
Vitamin D for depression is especially helpful for those suffering from Seasonal Affective Disorder or SAD. This form of depression is brought on by the lack of sunshine during the winter months. According to the Vitamin D council, summer sunlight increases the brain's seratonin levels twice as much as winter sunlight. This indicates that taking vitamin D supplements, at least during the winter months, can help compensate seratonin deficiency during the winter for those who suffer from SAD.

Niacin
Niacin, also known as vitamin B-3, is naturally found in liver, chicken, beef, fish, milk and eggs. Bill Wilson, founder of Alcoholics Anonymous, found that when he began taking Niacin supplements his level of anxiety and depression decreased and his mood greatly improved. Since then, studies have been conducted that prove the benefits of Niacin. In addition to being a great remedy for depression, Niacin can also lower cholesterol, decrease the risk of cancer and help relieve symptoms of arthritis. It is important to know that Niacin causes a harmless reaction known as the "Niacin Flush." You may feel hot, slightly itchy and your skin may become flushed or reddish. This reaction is temporary and harmless but can be distressing for first time Niacin users. It is recommended to start with a small doses of 25 mg, 3 times a day and increase the dosage gradually by 25 mg daily until you experience a slight flush.

There are many other vitamins and minerals that help with depression, including vitamin C, all of the B vitamins, Iron, Manganese, and Calcium. If you are suffering from depression, it is worth taking a high dose vitamin supplement that contains all of these. Depression can also be helped by eating a healthy diet, getting daily exercise and spending quality time with supportive loved ones.

sources:
http://www.vitamindcouncil.org/depression.shtml
http://www.doctoryourself.com/hoffer_niacin.html