Major depressive disorder, or depression, is a severe medical condition that can hurt how you feel, think, and act. Sadness and a loss of interest in previously enjoyable activities are symptoms of this condition. Depression has several treatments; the first step is to consult a healthcare professional. Combining treatments like therapy, taking the best vitamins for depression, and a healthy meal plan can help manage this disorder, but following a doctor’s advice is paramount.

Role of nutritional habits in managing depression
Depression, one of the most common mental illnesses, affects approximately 322 million people worldwide. It can affect an individual’s ability to work and way of life and cause various emotional and physical issues. However, it can be cured. Experts say eating a healthy, well-balanced meal can help manage the condition’s symptoms. Poor nutritional habits may play a role in the onset or severity of depression in some individuals. Studies indicate that certain nutritional supplements can help patients manage their symptoms.

Benefits of vitamins among patients struggling with depression
Combining natural remedies with conventional treatments like therapy and prescriptions may help manage depression symptoms. Working with a doctor or therapist helps patients determine which vitamins and supplements might be most effective for managing their condition. Keep reading to know what vitamins help treat depression.

Vitamin D
Vitamin D is one nutrient a health specialist might suggest for somebody encountering occasional depressive episodes. Sunlight is the primary source of this vitamin, though, at times, supplements might be required. Vitamin D supplements can boost mood and alleviate symptoms of seasonal affective disorder (SAD) in the fall and winter, when exposure to sunlight may be limited. A few well-known sources of vitamin D include-

1. Cod liver oil
2. Fatty fish, salmon, or tuna
3. Mushrooms
4. Egg yolk
5. Fortified milk
6. Fortified cereals

Vitamin D is fat-soluble, so its excessive intake can be harmful. Vitamin D toxicity can result in heart arrhythmias or kidney failure in extreme cases. Therefore, always contact a nutritional expert to chart a meal plan with multivitamins to manage depression.

Vitamin B
Group B vitamins play a crucial role in assisting the brain in producing sufficient quantities of the chemicals responsible for regulating mood and other functions. People experiencing a deficiency in B vitamins, particularly B-12, may be more likely to experience depression symptoms. Some good sources of vitamin B-12 are listed below.

1. Beef liver
2. Clams
3. Tuna
4. Yogurt
5. Fortified yeast
6. Milk
7. Fortified cereals

Furthermore, B vitamins can help combat fatigue, a common symptom of depression. Moreover, research indicates that vitamin B6 can be beneficial in reducing anxiety among patients dealing with depression.

Folate (B9)
It is also known as vitamin B9 and is the generic name for folates naturally available in food, folate supplements, and fortified foods. Pteroylmonoglutamic acid, or folic acid, is the synthetic form of vitamin B9. While some people use the terms “folate” and “folic acid” interchangeably, depression and, in some instances, an ineffective response to prescription remedies have been linked to folate deficiency. Some good sources of this nutrient are listed below.

1. Liver 
2. Asparagus
3. Brussels sprouts
4. Black-eyed peas
5. Spinach

Patients must always follow the prescription treatments suggested by their doctor. Furthermore, supplement the vitamin intake with the prescription. Seek the assistance of a healthcare professional at the right time to get cured before symptoms worsen.

Organic vitamins for depression
In addition to the vitamins as mentioned earlier and supplements, here are a few daily vitamins and minerals for depression that help patients feel better-

• Omega-3 fatty acids-  Omega-3 unsaturated fats are fundamental for the capability and strength of the cerebrum. They can travel through the brain cell membrane and interact with molecules linked to regulating one’s mood. They also possess anti-inflammatory properties, which help manage depression. Salmon and other fatty fish are natural sources of Omega-3s, as are seeds and nuts.
• Magnesium-  Healthcare professionals believe that nearly half of the adult population in the country suffers from magnesium deficiency. This deficiency may result from constipation and muscle tension, and sleep issues such as insomnia. As magnesium is necessary for the brain’s production of hormones that make a person feel good, it can also contribute to the symptoms of depression and other mood disorders.
• Calcium-  Calcium doesn’t relieve depression, but cutting out dairy from the daily nutritional plan can (particularly if you have food intolerances leading to inflammation in the brain) help manage the condition. To meet the calcium requirements, one can take calcium supplements.
• Vitamin C-  Studies indicate vitamin C helps alleviate depression and anxiety symptoms.

Reaching out for help
Depression is a severe medical condition that can be cured. One must follow a healthcare professional’s instructions thoroughly to manage symptoms. Furthermore, be aware that   organic vitamins for depression should not be used as alternatives for professional care; however, they can make professional care more effective when used in conjunction with it.

Nutrition plays a crucial role in maintaining one’s mental and physical health. Better guidance can help you find healthy ways to deal with depression. Anyone who wants to get rid of anxiety, overcome depression, raise their self-esteem, receive aftercare after treatment, participate in teletherapy sessions and more should contact a healthcare professional for assistance.