B-complex vitamins and vitamin C are among the most frequently utilized vitamins for depression. While many individuals treat depression with prescription drugs, these vitamins have been shown to greatly improve mood and vitality through completely natural means. They function as an alternate form of depression medication — or, in many instances, in conjunction with prescription medications — by working with the chemicals of the brain and helping regulate mood.
Several members of the B-complex family are essential vitamins for depression treatment. B vitamins aid in many important functions throughout the body, and one of their areas of concentration is the brain. The human body cannot store B vitamins, so it can only be obtained through supplements and diet. Unfortunately, they are also easily destroyed, and many individuals — especially those with depressive disorders — may be suffering from B vitamin deficiencies. B vitamins can be eradicated by refined sugar, caffeine, and alcohol; cigarettes and other nicotine products can wipe out vitamin B as well.
Vitamin B1, or thiamine, is a member of the B-complex family and is considered to be one of the best vitamins for depression treatment. Thiamine helps transform glucose into energy for the body, which invigorates the nerves and increases energy levels. By breaking down carbohydrates, thiamine energizes the entire system, stimulating the cells in both the body and the brain.
Vitamin B3, or niacin, is among the most widely used vitamins for depression. Niacin also is important for energizing the body. It breaks down calories from food and helps the system process these calories into fuel. The vitamin keeps the appetite and nerves stimulated, and, as an added bonus, is good for the skin.
Other B vitamins ideal for use as natural depression remedies are Vitamin B5 — pantothenic acid — and Vitamin B9, or folic acid. Pantothenic acid is important in healthy hormone development and in the production of a necessary brain neurotransmitter called acetylcholine, both of which help combat depression. Folic acid is vital to the fusion of deoxyribonucleic acid, or DNA, and in the creation of S-adenosyl methionine, an essential brain compound.
Natural supplements of vitamin C can also prove helpful for the treatment of depression. Certain medical conditions can sap the body and brain of much-needed vitamin C, and this can lead to feelings of lethargy, stress, and depression. By ensuring the body is maintaining a steady level of vitamin C, the depression can be greatly lessened or eradicated altogether.