Often we heard supplement company claiming their products boost mood or improve depression.
Depression requires antidepressant medication and some supplement products are often reccomended as an alternative to prescription antidepressants.
But, trust me, don’t believe everything you read. The claims made by certain supplement manufacturers aren’t backed up by solid scientific evidence.
Anyway, some supplements such as St. John’s wort and SAMe have been tested fairly extensively and may improve your symptoms.
Below, I listed the most popular supplements used to treat depression and mood.
1. Folic acid
Definition: Folic acid, also known as vitamin B9, vitamin Bc, and folate, as well. Low leavels of Folate may cause depression among people, especially those who don’t respond to antidepressants.
According one study, patients who received folic acid responded better than those who received placebo. In particular, 95% of the women who received folic acid responded to the combo treatment, compared to about 60% of the women who received the placebo.
2. GABA
Definition: Gamma-aminobutyric acid, is a neurotransmitter involved in inhibition and stress relief. GABA is also directly responsible for the regulation of muscle tone.
GABA deficiency could be linked to depression and anxiety. GABA is sold as a capsule, pill, or powder.
In the first study, the researchers found that taking GABA had a relaxing effect on brain waves.
