Effects of cholecalciferol supplementation on depressive symptoms, C-peptide, serotonin, and neurotrophin-3 in type 2 diabetes mellitus: A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial.
We conducted a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial to explore how cholecalciferol, a form of vitamin D, influences depressive symptoms in individuals suffering from type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). This clinical study lasted for 12 weeks and involved participants who were either given a daily dose of 4000 IU of cholecalciferol or a placebo.
Throughout the study, we measured various factors, including the participants’ depression levels using the Beck Depression Inventory-II, as well as important biological markers like C-peptide, serotonin, and neurotrophin-3.
Our findings showed a significant reduction in depression scores among those taking cholecalciferol compared to the placebo group. Additionally, we observed a notable increase in C-peptide levels, which may indicate some metabolic benefits, although no significant changes were found in serotonin and neurotrophin-3 levels.
Ultimately, while cholecalciferol appears to alleviate mild to moderate depressive symptoms in T2DM patients through improved C-peptide levels, its impact on serotonin and neurotrophin-3 remains unclear. This highlights vitamin D as a potentially helpful option for managing depression alongside diabetes.
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8
Vitamin D deficiency worsens depression
Association between vitamin D deficiency and major depression in patients with chronic kidney disease: a cohort study.
We examined the connection between vitamin D deficiency (VDD) and depression in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Our research, which utilized a large database from the TriNetX network, involved over 17,900 matched CKD patients aged 50 and older. They were divided into two groups based on their vitamin D levels: those with deficiency (20 ng/mL or lower) and those with adequate levels (30 ng/mL or higher).
The findings were striking. We discovered that those with VDD had nearly double the risk of developing depression within a year compared to those with sufficient vitamin D levels. This risk was especially pronounced in men and remained consistent across different stages of CKD. Even patients who had borderline low vitamin D levels faced an increased chance of depression.
Our study suggests that maintaining adequate vitamin D levels might be crucial for mental health in CKD patients. However, we also recognize the need for further randomized trials to definitively establish whether vitamin D supplementation can help prevent depression in these individuals. The implications of our findings could pave the way for new approaches to managing mental health in patients dealing with CKD.
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8
Vitamin D's role in depression
The Association between Vitamin D Deficiency and Perinatal Depression: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.
We conducted a thorough search of existing studies to understand how vitamin D levels might influence depression during pregnancy and after childbirth. Our findings suggest a notable connection: women with lower vitamin D levels were found to be at a higher risk of experiencing depression.
In our analysis of 13 studies, we observed that pregnant women facing prenatal depression had significantly lower vitamin D levels compared to those without depression. The statistics showed a clear difference, with a standardized mean difference of -0.41, suggesting that vitamin D deficiency could be an important factor in maternal mental health.
When we examined postpartum depression, the results were striking. Our analysis revealed a substantial association, with depressed women exhibiting much lower vitamin D levels—showing a standardized mean difference of -1.62. This points to the importance of monitoring and addressing vitamin D levels not just during pregnancy, but also after childbirth.
Ultimately, our review highlights the potential role of vitamin D in supporting mental health for mothers. Ensuring adequate levels of this vitamin could be a key element in promoting emotional well-being during such crucial periods of life.
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Most Useful Reviews
9
Mood improvement noted
Currently, many doctors regard vitamin D3 as akin to hormones, as its deficiency can lead to severe consequences, including stress and persistent depression. It aids calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium absorption, crucial for bone health. Additionally, it enhances metabolic processes, uplifts mood, alleviates anxiety and neuropsychiatric disorders, and helps with insomnia. Due to limited sunlight throughout the year, my family and I take this vitamin, promoting a tranquil atmosphere at home.
Read More
7.5
Works well for blues
An easy way to combat the blues is by taking two of these daily for depression. I notice a decline in my mood when I don’t take enough, and they are easy to swallow.
Read More
6
Helpful for depression
Vitamin D is deemed essential; however, in today's society, it may not suffice. It is also beneficial for depression, so I intend to continue taking it.
Combined oral supplementation with magnesium plus vitamin D alleviates mild to moderate depressive symptoms related to long-COVID: an open-label randomized, controlled clinical trial.
We conducted a study to evaluate whether supplementing with magnesium and vitamin D could help alleviate mild-to-moderate depressive symptoms in individuals suffering from long-COVID. The clinical trial included 60 participants, aged 52.8 years on average, who had been diagnosed with hypomagnesemia, vitamin D deficiency, and mild-to-moderate depression.
Participants were divided into two groups: one received magnesium chloride along with vitamin D, while the other group only received vitamin D. Over four months, we monitored the effectiveness of these supplements in reducing depressive symptoms, using the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) scale to measure changes.
Our results revealed a significant reduction in depressive symptoms for those taking both magnesium and vitamin D, with 73.2% of them reaching a positive outcome score on the BDI. In contrast, the control group, which received only vitamin D, showed a less dramatic improvement, suggesting that the combined treatment may offer more benefits for those struggling with depression related to long-COVID.
While both groups experienced some improvement, our findings indicate that magnesium plus vitamin D supplementation presents a promising option for individuals coping with depression in the wake of COVID-19.
Read More
9
Vitamin D supports depression management
Effects of cholecalciferol supplementation on depressive symptoms, C-peptide, serotonin, and neurotrophin-3 in type 2 diabetes mellitus: A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial.
We conducted a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial to explore how cholecalciferol, a form of vitamin D, influences depressive symptoms in individuals suffering from type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). This clinical study lasted for 12 weeks and involved participants who were either given a daily dose of 4000 IU of cholecalciferol or a placebo.
Throughout the study, we measured various factors, including the participants’ depression levels using the Beck Depression Inventory-II, as well as important biological markers like C-peptide, serotonin, and neurotrophin-3.
Our findings showed a significant reduction in depression scores among those taking cholecalciferol compared to the placebo group. Additionally, we observed a notable increase in C-peptide levels, which may indicate some metabolic benefits, although no significant changes were found in serotonin and neurotrophin-3 levels.
Ultimately, while cholecalciferol appears to alleviate mild to moderate depressive symptoms in T2DM patients through improved C-peptide levels, its impact on serotonin and neurotrophin-3 remains unclear. This highlights vitamin D as a potentially helpful option for managing depression alongside diabetes.
Read More
8
Fortified yogurt benefits depression treatment
Effects of a Novel Fortified Dairy Product on the Psychological Status and Sleep Quality of Patients with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Double-Blind Randomized Controlled Trial.
We conducted a double-blind randomized controlled trial to explore how a specially fortified yogurt affects depression and sleep quality in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). This study involved two groups of participants: one group consumed yogurt enriched with probiotics, vitamin E, and vitamin D, while the other group received a placebo.
After eight weeks of monitoring, we observed a significant improvement in depression levels among those who enjoyed the fortified yogurt compared to the placebo group. This suggests that the combined intake of probiotics, along with vitamins, may help alleviate depressive symptoms in women suffering from PCOS. However, when it comes to sleep quality, the results didn’t show any noticeable improvement, indicating that while certain nutritional interventions can positively affect mood, they may not necessarily enhance sleep.
Overall, our findings point to the potential benefits of nutritional approaches in managing depression, particularly for individuals who may prefer alternatives to traditional antidepressant medications. However, we should remain cautious, as further research is needed to fully understand the individual effects of each component, especially vitamin D, on mental health.
Read More
8
Vitamin D and activity reduce depression
Synergistic impact of 25-hydroxyvitamin D and physical activity on incident depression: Evidence from prospective cohorts and genome-wide data.
We explored the connection between 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels, physical activity, and the risk of developing depression in older adults. Using data from a large, longitudinal study called the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing, we focused on cognitively healthy individuals aged 50 and older.
Our findings showed that higher levels of 25(OH)D were associated with a significantly lower risk of depression. When we combined high levels of vitamin D with regular physical activity, the protective effect against depression was even greater, especially in those aged 65 and older.
Specifically, we noted that individuals with high levels of vitamin D and who engaged in physical activity had a 23.1% lower chance of developing depression. This combination not only highlights the importance of maintaining adequate vitamin D levels but also emphasizes incorporating physical activity into our daily routines as essential for mental health.
Ultimately, our results underscore the potential benefits of vitamin D supplementation and regular physical activity as strategies for preventing depression, particularly in older adults.
Read More
8
Vitamin D's role in depression
Associations between the intake of single and multiple dietary vitamins and depression risk among populations with chronic kidney disease.
We aimed to understand how vitamin D intake impacts depression risk for individuals with chronic kidney disease (CKD). By analyzing data from 3,123 CKD participants, we explored not only the effects of vitamin D alone but also how the combined intake of multiple vitamins—A, B, C, D, E, and K—might affect mental health.
Our findings indicated that higher intakes of vitamins A, B, D, and K correlated with a lower likelihood of depression. In fact, individuals who consumed more of these vitamins had significantly reduced symptoms, suggesting a protective effect against depressive states. We also found that the joint consumption of these nine vitamins plays a critical role in reducing depression, with vitamin A being the top contributor to this positive effect.
Overall, the study shows promise for vitamin D, alongside other vitamins, as potential dietary interventions for alleviating depression in CKD patients. This highlights the importance of good nutrition in supporting mental health, particularly for vulnerable populations.
Currently, many doctors regard vitamin D3 as akin to hormones, as its deficiency can lead to severe consequences, including stress and persistent depression. It aids calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium absorption, crucial for bone health. Additionally, it enhances metabolic processes, uplifts mood, alleviates anxiety and neuropsychiatric disorders, and helps with insomnia. Due to limited sunlight throughout the year, my family and I take this vitamin, promoting a tranquil atmosphere at home.
Read More
7.5
Works well for blues
An easy way to combat the blues is by taking two of these daily for depression. I notice a decline in my mood when I don’t take enough, and they are easy to swallow.
Read More
6
Helpful for depression
Vitamin D is deemed essential; however, in today's society, it may not suffice. It is also beneficial for depression, so I intend to continue taking it.
Read More
Frequently Asked Questions
Depression is a common and serious mental health condition characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest or pleasure in activities that were once enjoyable. It can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or background, and it goes beyond just feeling down; it can interfere significantly with daily life, impacting relationships, work performance, and overall well-being. Symptoms of depression may include changes in appetite or weight, sleep disturbances, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and thoughts of worthlessness or suicide.
The causes of depression are complex and may involve a combination of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors. While it's a serious condition that can be debilitating, the good news is that it is treatable. Various treatment options are available, including therapy, medication, lifestyle changes, and support groups. If you or someone you know is struggling with depression, seeking help from a healthcare professional is a crucial step toward recovery.
Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that's essential for maintaining healthy bones and teeth, supporting immune system function, and facilitating normal cell growth and development. It plays a crucial role in calcium absorption in the gut, which is vital for bone health. Unlike most vitamins, our bodies can produce Vitamin D when exposed to sunlight, specifically UVB rays, which is why it’s often referred to as the "sunshine vitamin." However, depending on your geographical location, lifestyle, and skin type, getting sufficient Vitamin D from the sun alone can be challenging, particularly during the winter months.
In addition to sunlight, Vitamin D can be obtained from certain foods such as fatty fish (like salmon and mackerel), fish liver oils, and fortified foods like milk and cereals. Some individuals may also consider supplements, especially if they're at risk for deficiency. Insufficient vitamin D levels are linked to various health issues, including rickets in children, osteomalacia in adults, and even an increased risk of chronic diseases. Regularly checking your vitamin D levels and consulting with a healthcare professional can help ensure you're meeting your needs for optimal health.
Research has suggested a possible link between vitamin D levels and mood regulation, including its potential role in alleviating symptoms of depression. Some studies indicate that individuals with low levels of vitamin D may be more susceptible to depressive symptoms, and supplementation may provide some relief. This is particularly relevant in regions with limited sunlight exposure, where vitamin D synthesis from sunlight is reduced. However, while some individuals may experience improved mood with vitamin D supplementation, results can vary significantly from person to person.
It's important to note that vitamin D is not a standalone treatment for depression and should not replace prescribed medication or therapy. If you're considering adding vitamin D supplements to your regimen, it's best to consult with a healthcare professional who can evaluate your specific situation and recommend appropriate dosages along with potential lifestyle changes. Overall, while vitamin D may contribute to mood enhancement, it's just one piece of a larger puzzle when addressing mental health concerns.
Based on user reviews, results from taking vitamin D supplements for depression can vary. Some users report feeling an improvement in their mood relatively quickly, often noting that they feel a decline in their mood when they do not take enough of the supplement, suggesting an immediate effect in their case Read Review. Others highlight the importance of consistent use alongside other lifestyle factors, indicating that while dietary supplementation is beneficial, it might not be sufficient alone in today’s society Read Review.
Moreover, many users recognize the broader benefits of vitamin D3, such as its ability to alleviate anxiety and neuropsychiatric disorders, which may contribute to an overall uplift in mood over time Read Review. However, the exact timeframe to see noticeable results can depend on individual health conditions and dosing; some users don’t specify a timeline. Therefore, while some may feel effects fairly quickly, others might need a longer duration to assess the full benefits of supplementation.
Numerous studies suggest that vitamin D supplementation can have a positive impact on depression, making it a noteworthy candidate for those seeking alternative treatments. Research indicates that adequate levels of vitamin D are associated with a lower risk of depression, particularly in vulnerable populations such as older adults and individuals with chronic conditions like chronic kidney disease and type 2 diabetes [2][3]. In clinical trials, a significant improvement in depressive symptoms has been observed among those receiving vitamin D supplementation, with some studies revealing that higher dosages correlate with greater reductions in symptoms [11][10].
However, while the evidence is promising, it is important to approach vitamin D supplementation with caution, as not all studies concur on its efficacy and some note inconsistencies in results [6]. The complexity of the relationship between vitamin D levels and various types of depression is still under investigation, with varying results based on individual health conditions and dosage [12]. Therefore, while vitamin D appears to be a significant factor in managing depressive symptoms, further well-designed studies are necessary to establish definitive treatment guidelines and understand its full potential in mental health care.
Based on user reviews, many individuals have reported notable improvements in their symptoms after taking vitamin D3 supplements. Users have shared experiences of elevated mood and reduced anxiety, indicating that the supplement helps alleviate stress and neuropsychiatric disorders. One user mentioned that the vitamin contributes to a tranquil atmosphere at home, suggesting that its benefits extend beyond just mood enhancement Read Review. Additionally, another reviewer observed a clear correlation between their mood and their vitamin D intake, stating that they feel a decline in mood when not adequately supplemented Read Review.
Despite these positive reports, it’s important to remember that individual results can vary significantly. Some users recognize that while vitamin D is essential for overall health and can be beneficial for depression, it might not be a standalone solution for everyone Read Review. This implies that while many may experience improvements in their mood and mental well-being, others might need to consider additional lifestyle factors and treatments to achieve desired outcomes.
Based on user reviews, many individuals have experimented with combining vitamin D3 with other supplements to manage their depression symptoms. Users acknowledge that while vitamin D3 is beneficial for mood elevation and alleviating anxiety Read Review, it may not be sufficient on its own for everyone. One user noted the importance of continuing vitamin D intake alongside other treatments, emphasizing that while it contributes positively to their mental health, additional measures might be necessary to achieve the best results Read Review.
Another user highlighted the impact of vitamin D3 on their emotional state, suggesting a direct correlation between their mood and vitamin D intake Read Review. This implies that for those seeking to enhance their mood comprehensively, a cooperative approach involving multiple supplements or lifestyle changes might be beneficial. However, as with any supplementation regimen, individual responses can vary, so users should consider personal health conditions and consult with a healthcare provider.
Recent studies have highlighted a promising dosage of Vitamin D for treating depression, particularly focusing on the benefits of higher intake levels. One significant study suggested that a daily dose of 8,000 IU of Vitamin D can lead to marked improvements in depressive symptoms, especially among individuals already experiencing these challenges [11]. This aligns with findings showing that higher 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels correlate with a reduced risk of depression, indicating that both adequate levels and supplementation play critical roles in mental health [2].
Moreover, while Vitamin D supplementation has shown potential in enhancing mood and reducing reliance on traditional antidepressants, there is a need for further research to fully understand its effects [3]. Notably, combining Vitamin D with magnesium may enhance its efficacy in alleviating depressive symptoms, particularly in populations affected by conditions like long-COVID [7]. Ensuring a sufficient intake of Vitamin D appears to be an essential step in managing depression, but consulting a healthcare provider for personalized advice is crucial before starting any new supplementation regimen.
7.5
Works well for blues
An easy way to combat the blues is by taking two of these daily for depression. I notice a decline in my mood when I don’t take enough, and they are easy to swallow.
6
Helpful for depression
Vitamin D is deemed essential; however, in today's society, it may not suffice. It is also beneficial for depression, so I intend to continue taking it.
9
Mood improvement noted
Currently, many doctors regard vitamin D3 as akin to hormones, as its deficiency can lead to severe consequences, including stress and persistent depression. It aids calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium absorption, crucial for bone health. Additionally, it enhances metabolic processes, uplifts mood, alleviates anxiety and neuropsychiatric disorders, and helps with insomnia. Due to limited sunlight throughout the year, my family and I take this vitamin, promoting a tranquil atmosphere at home.
8
Vitamin D and activity reduce depression
Synergistic impact of 25-hydroxyvitamin D and physical activity on incident depression: Evidence from prospective cohorts and genome-wide data.
We explored the connection between 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels, physical activity, and the risk of developing depression in older adults. Using data from a large, longitudinal study called the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing, we focused on cognitively healthy individuals aged 50 and older.
Our findings showed that higher levels of 25(OH)D were associated with a significantly lower risk of depression. When we combined high levels of vitamin D with regular physical activity, the protective effect against depression was even greater, especially in those aged 65 and older.
Specifically, we noted that individuals with high levels of vitamin D and who engaged in physical activity had a 23.1% lower chance of developing depression. This combination not only highlights the importance of maintaining adequate vitamin D levels but also emphasizes incorporating physical activity into our daily routines as essential for mental health.
Ultimately, our results underscore the potential benefits of vitamin D supplementation and regular physical activity as strategies for preventing depression, particularly in older adults.
7
Vitamin D's Role in Depression
Can Vıtamın D Reduce the Need for SSRI by Modulatıng Serotonın Synthesıs?: A Revıew of Recent Lıterature.
We explored how vitamin D might influence depression by examining its role in serotonin synthesis. A significant aspect of our investigation centered on how this nutrient could potentially reduce the severity of depression and, in some cases, lessen the reliance on antidepressants, specifically SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors).
Several studies revealed that vitamin D, particularly its active form known as calcitriol, plays a crucial role in many bodily processes, including brain function. We learned that a deficiency in vitamin D can be linked to mood disorders and cognitive difficulties. It appears that sufficient levels of vitamin D might help increase serotonin in the brain, which is often a primary target of depression treatments.
In some research, combining vitamin D supplementation with SSRIs showed promising additive effects on managing psychiatric conditions. This suggests that while vitamin D alone might not replace traditional treatments, it could offer significant benefits in collaboration with them. However, we must remain cautious as the exact impact of vitamin D and its independent effect on serotonin levels is still an area that requires further exploration.
8
Vitamin D reduces depressive symptoms
The effect of vitamin D supplementation on depression: a systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.
We explored how vitamin D supplementation might affect depressive symptoms and whether it has a dose-dependent relationship with these symptoms. By analyzing data from 31 randomized controlled trials involving nearly 24,200 participants, we aimed to clarify the potential benefits of vitamin D on depression. Our research revealed that, generally, increasing vitamin D intake appeared to lead to a slight reduction in depressive symptoms across different groups of individuals, whether they had a prior diagnosis of depression or not.
The effect was particularly significant for those already experiencing depressive symptoms, showing a marked improvement with higher dosages. Interestingly, we noted that the most substantial improvements occurred at a dosage of 8000 IU/day. Moreover, we found that shorter intervention periods of eight weeks or less, or those lasting between eight to 24 weeks, were associated with stronger positive effects than longer trials.
On the other hand, when it came to anxiety symptoms, vitamin D supplementation did not show a significant benefit. This suggests that while vitamin D might be a helpful tool for managing depression in the short term, we still need more high-quality trials to fully understand its impact on anxiety and to make a stronger case for its use in treating these symptoms.
9
Vitamin D supports depression management
Effects of cholecalciferol supplementation on depressive symptoms, C-peptide, serotonin, and neurotrophin-3 in type 2 diabetes mellitus: A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial.
We conducted a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial to explore how cholecalciferol, a form of vitamin D, influences depressive symptoms in individuals suffering from type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). This clinical study lasted for 12 weeks and involved participants who were either given a daily dose of 4000 IU of cholecalciferol or a placebo.
Throughout the study, we measured various factors, including the participants’ depression levels using the Beck Depression Inventory-II, as well as important biological markers like C-peptide, serotonin, and neurotrophin-3.
Our findings showed a significant reduction in depression scores among those taking cholecalciferol compared to the placebo group. Additionally, we observed a notable increase in C-peptide levels, which may indicate some metabolic benefits, although no significant changes were found in serotonin and neurotrophin-3 levels.
Ultimately, while cholecalciferol appears to alleviate mild to moderate depressive symptoms in T2DM patients through improved C-peptide levels, its impact on serotonin and neurotrophin-3 remains unclear. This highlights vitamin D as a potentially helpful option for managing depression alongside diabetes.
8
Vitamin D's potential in depression
Nutritional interventions in depression: The role of vitamin D and omega-3 fatty acids in neuropsychiatric health.
We examined how Vitamin D may influence depression and whether it can serve as a helpful treatment option. The evidence suggests that Vitamin D plays a role in regulating neurotransmitter activity and reducing inflammation in the brain, which can contribute to mood improvements.
Numerous studies show that individuals with lower levels of Vitamin D often experience more severe depressive symptoms. This connection hints at the potential for Vitamin D supplementation to alleviate these symptoms. When patients who are deficient in Vitamin D receive supplementation, many report significant improvements in their mood and overall well-being.
However, it's important to acknowledge that not all studies agree on the benefits of Vitamin D for depression. Limitations such as varied dosages and study designs make it difficult to draw definitive conclusions. Nonetheless, integrating Vitamin D into mental health treatment might provide an additional avenue for support in managing depression.
4
Vitamin D's modest impact on depression
Micronutrients and Major Depression: A Mendelian Randomisation Study.
We investigated how micronutrients, particularly vitamin D, impact major depressive disorder (MDD) and recurrent depression (rMDD). Through a robust study utilizing genetic data from large-scale genome-wide association studies, we aimed to understand potential causal relationships between these nutrients and depression.
Our findings suggested a weak protective effect of vitamin D against depressive outcomes, alongside iron and copper. However, we observed that these associations aren’t very strong. For instance, when we evaluated the data closely, 25(OH) vitamin D showed a notable indication of reducing the risk of rMDD. Yet, it’s important to note that our results did not show any significant benefits for most other micronutrients on depression.
While the evidence for a protective role of these nutrients exists, it is quite modest. Moreover, some nutrients, like selenium, appeared to be associated with a higher risk of MDD and rMDD. Given these mixed findings, it’s essential to approach supplementation with caution, as some nutrients may have adverse effects in excess.
9
Vitamin D and Magnesium Aid Depression
Combined oral supplementation with magnesium plus vitamin D alleviates mild to moderate depressive symptoms related to long-COVID: an open-label randomized, controlled clinical trial.
We conducted a study to evaluate whether supplementing with magnesium and vitamin D could help alleviate mild-to-moderate depressive symptoms in individuals suffering from long-COVID. The clinical trial included 60 participants, aged 52.8 years on average, who had been diagnosed with hypomagnesemia, vitamin D deficiency, and mild-to-moderate depression.
Participants were divided into two groups: one received magnesium chloride along with vitamin D, while the other group only received vitamin D. Over four months, we monitored the effectiveness of these supplements in reducing depressive symptoms, using the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) scale to measure changes.
Our results revealed a significant reduction in depressive symptoms for those taking both magnesium and vitamin D, with 73.2% of them reaching a positive outcome score on the BDI. In contrast, the control group, which received only vitamin D, showed a less dramatic improvement, suggesting that the combined treatment may offer more benefits for those struggling with depression related to long-COVID.
While both groups experienced some improvement, our findings indicate that magnesium plus vitamin D supplementation presents a promising option for individuals coping with depression in the wake of COVID-19.
References
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Xu X, Jing F, Zhong H, Lin L, Gao T, et al. Synergistic impact of 25-hydroxyvitamin D and physical activity on incident depression: Evidence from prospective cohorts and genome-wide data. J Affect Disord. 2025. 10.1016/j.jad.2025.03.004
Bostan ZZ, Şare Bulut M, Gezmen Karadağ M. Can Vıtamın D Reduce the Need for SSRI by Modulatıng Serotonın Synthesıs?: A Revıew of Recent Lıterature. Curr Nutr Rep. 2025;14:39. 10.1007/s13668-025-00630-7
Yu C, Liu K, Yao W, Tang D. Associations between the intake of single and multiple dietary vitamins and depression risk among populations with chronic kidney disease. Front Nutr. 2025;12:1492829. 10.3389/fnut.2025.1492829
Chen IW, Wang WT, Lai YC, Chang YJ, Lin YT, et al. Association between vitamin D deficiency and major depression in patients with chronic kidney disease: a cohort study. Front Nutr. 2025;12:1540633. 10.3389/fnut.2025.1540633
Raza ML, Hassan ST, Jamil S, Fatima W, Fatima M. Nutritional interventions in depression: The role of vitamin D and omega-3 fatty acids in neuropsychiatric health. Clin Nutr. 2025;45:270. 10.1016/j.clnu.2025.01.009
Rodríguez-Morán M, Guerrero-Romero F, Barragán-Zuñiga J, Gamboa-Gómez CI, Weyman-Vela Y, et al. Combined oral supplementation with magnesium plus vitamin D alleviates mild to moderate depressive symptoms related to long-COVID: an open-label randomized, controlled clinical trial. Magnes Res. 2024;37:49. 10.1684/mrh.2024.0535
Yuan Y, Qu L, Sun Q, He P, Zhou X. The Association between Vitamin D Deficiency and Perinatal Depression: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Alpha Psychiatry. 2024;25:669. 10.5152/alphapsychiatry.2024.241553
Jiang R, Lu M, Hua Y, Hong Z. Association between serum vitamin D and depression among non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Asia Pac J Clin Nutr. 2025;34:112. 10.6133/apjcn.202502_34(1).0011
Putranto R, Setiati S, Nasrun MW, Witjaksono F, Immanuel S, et al. Effects of cholecalciferol supplementation on depressive symptoms, C-peptide, serotonin, and neurotrophin-3 in type 2 diabetes mellitus: A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial. Narra J. 2024;4:e1342. 10.52225/narra.v4i3.1342
Ghaemi S, Zeraattalab-Motlagh S, Jayedi A, Shab-Bidar S. The effect of vitamin D supplementation on depression: a systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Psychol Med. 2024;54:1. 10.1017/S0033291724001697
Carnegie RE, Zheng J, Borges MC, Jones HJ, Wade KH, et al. Micronutrients and Major Depression: A Mendelian Randomisation Study. Nutrients. 2024;16. 10.3390/nu16213690
Centeno LOL, Fernandez MDS, Muniz FWMG, Longoni A, de Assis AM. Is Serum Vitamin D Associated with Depression or Anxiety in Ante- and Postnatal Adult Women? A Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis. Nutrients. 2024;16. 10.3390/nu16213648
Karnopp TE, Chapacais GF, Gasparini ML, Dos Santos NG, Freitas VDS, et al. The role of vitamin D: a promising pathway to combat neuropsychiatric lupus disorders. Clin Exp Immunol. 2025;219. 10.1093/cei/uxae099
Santos HGD, Longoni A, Trettim JP, Lemes IT, Menchaca JC, et al. Deficiency of vitamin D is associated with antenatal depression: A cross-sectional study. Trends Psychiatry Psychother. 2024. 10.47626/2237-6089-2024-0908
Wu J, Jiang Y, Liang J, Zhou Y, Chai S, et al. Bidirectional causality between micronutrients and mental illness: Mendelian randomization studies. J Affect Disord. 2025;369:718. 10.1016/j.jad.2024.09.047