Understanding the Science behind Mental Health Supplements

Mental health issues have been on the increase globally, and different therapeutic interventions are now being explored to manage these concerns. While therapy and pharmaceutical products work well for some people, mental health supplements are also being recommended by therapists to help people struggling with poor motivation and depression. In this blog post, we will examine the science behind some vitamins and supplements that promote mental health benefits.

Much research is available detailing the efficacy of supplementation for better mental health outcomes.

1. Vitamin D

Research has shown that vitamin D can play a significant role in improving mental health. Studies have linked vitamin D deficiency to depression, particularly seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Vitamin D helps to regulate serotonin levels, which can alleviate depression symptoms. It is recommended that adults should get at least 600 IU of vitamin D daily. However, it's best to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any vitamin supplements.

2. Omega-3 fatty acids

Omega-3 fatty acids supplements can also promote mental health benefits. They help to reduce inflammation, which has been linked to different mental health conditions, such as depression and anxiety. Omega-3 fatty acids are also essential for maintaining brain structure and function, and low levels have been linked to an increased risk of developing cognitive disorders. A daily dose of 1000mg or more of omega-3 fatty acids is recommended.

3. Vitamin B-12

Vitamin B-12 is essential for the nervous system's proper functioning, and low levels can lead to poor concentration and low energy levels, which can increase the risk of depression. Vitamin B-12 can also boost the production of dopamine and serotonin, which are neurotransmitters linked to mood regulation. Though Vitamin B-12 can be found in meat, dairy, and eggs, people who follow a vegan or vegetarian diet may need to take supplements.

4. Probiotics

The gut-brain axis connects the gut and brain, and research has shown a link between gut health and mental health. Probiotics can improve the gut microbiome, and studies have shown that they can alleviate anxiety and depression symptoms. To get the best results, it's recommended that you take probiotics regularly for at least four weeks.

5. Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha is an herbal supplement that has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years to support brain function and manage stress. It helps to reduce cortisol, a hormone linked to stress, and can also improve brain function, memory, and reaction time. While ashwagandha can be purchased over the counter, it's best to consult with a healthcare professional before starting this supplement.

Patrick M. DeCarlo anecdotally reports clients benefitting from their own use of supplements after consulting with their primary medical doctors.

Mental health supplements can be an excellent alternative or complementary treatment to conventional therapy and pharmaceutical products for people experiencing mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and low energy. However, it's best to consult with a healthcare professional before adding any new supplements to your daily routine. Always follow dosage instructions, and be patient as some supplements may take weeks or even months to show any significant effects. With the right supplements and therapy, people struggling with poor motivation and depressed mood can improve their quality of life. Any exogenous treatment for mental health, be it with supplements or medications like SSRIs, is best paired with talk therapy.