Order 1-800-338-7979 24-hrs.
Depression may stem from the inability of the body to metabolize folate, a B-complex vitamin, according to research from Norway.
B-vitamins help regulate the amino acid homocysteine which, when levels are too high, can damage cells lining the blood vessels and raise oxidative stress, a condition where the cells lose control of their regulatory systems. Homocysteine has also been linked to cognitive impairment, dementia, and stroke, and with the onset of Alzheimer's disease.
Dr. Ingvar Bjelland, MD, of the University of Bergen, screened 5,948 people between the ages of 46 and 49 for depression and anxiety. His team then examined blood samples and found that those with depression were more likely to have high blood levels of homocysteine and to have difficulty breaking down folate. Those with the highest blood levels of homocysteine were almost twice as likely to have depression as those with the lowest levels. The researchers also found that folic acid, the supplement form of folate, appeared to boost the effectiveness of antidepressants.
Dr. Martha Morris, PhD, an epidemiologist at Tufts University concurred saying that her findings also showed that folic acid supplementation helped the depressed reduce fatigue and improve energy levels. Researchers do not know why those with depression have difficulty metabolizing folate. Dr. Bjelland concluded that B-vitamins in general, and folic acid in particular, are important not only for physical health, but for mental health as well.
|
|
SSL Certificates |
|
Order 800-338-7979 | Customer Service 800-754-8000
Information provided on this site is solely for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Do not use this information for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing of any medications or supplements. Only your healthcare provider should diagnose your healthcare problems and prescribe treatment. None of our statements or information, including health claims, articles, advertising or product information have been evaluated or approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The products or ingredients referred to on this site are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Please consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement, diet or exercise program, before taking any medications or receiving treatment, particularly if you are currently under medical care. Make sure you carefully read all product labeling and packaging prior to use. If you have or suspect you may have a health problem, do not take any supplements without first consulting and obtaining the approval of your healthcare provider. California Consumers – Proposition 65 requires sellers to notify California consumers of substances that are in many foods, plants, herbs and supplements with the following warning. WARNING: These products contain chemicals known to the State of California to cause birth defects or other reproductive harm.
©2000-2013 Nutrition Express Corporation. All rights reserved.