What is the relationship between vitamin B12 and depression?

Vitamin B-12 and B vitamins play a role in the secretion of chemicals in the brain that affect mood and other brain functions. Low levels of vitamin B-12 and other B vitamins such as vitamin B-6 and folate may be associated with depression.

Why does vitamin B12 deficiency occur?

Low levels of a vitamin may arise as a result of:

• Bad diet.
• When the body can not absorb the vitamins you consume.
• Older people and vegetarians suffering from gastrointestinal disorders such as abdominal disease or Crohn's disease, may have problems getting enough vitamin B-12.
• Vitamin B-12 deficiency sometimes occurs for unknown reasons.

Your doctor may ask you to have a blood test to check your vitamin B-12 or other vitamins if you suspect them.

• How do you make sure you get enough?
  The best way to make sure you get vitamin B-12 and other vitamins adequately is to follow a system that includes major nutrients sources.

Vitamin B12 Sources

Vitamin B-12 is abundant in animal products such as fish, lean meats, poultry, eggs, and low-fat, low-fat milk.

• Rich cereal breakfast is a good source of vitamin B-12 and other B vitamins.
• Taking daily supplements containing vitamin B-12 may help your body get the nutrients it needs, especially if you are over 50 years old or you are a vegetarian. However, dietary supplements of vitamin B-12 and other vitamins may interact with certain medications, especially in high doses. Consult your doctor before taking any vitamin supplements.

• Vitamin B and depression

The role of B vitamins in treating depression is not clear. If you have a vitamin deficiency, it may be helpful to take a dietary supplement, but supplements are not a substitute for effective depression treatments such as antidepressants and psychological counseling.