Reviewed By
Overview
SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Possibly Effective
Based on 30 Researches
7
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 103 Reviews
8
Supplement Facts
Serving Size: 1 Softgel
Amount Per Serving
%DV
Vitamin D3 (as Cholecalciferol) (from Lanolin)
125 mcg (5,000 IU)
625%
Top Medical Research Studies
9
Vitamin D3 improves depressive symptoms
We conducted a double-blind randomized clinical trial to explore the effects of vitamin D3 supplementation on depression. Our study involved 56 adults with mild to moderate depression, who were assigned to either a vitamin D group or a placebo group. Over the course of eight weeks, the vitamin D group received a high dose of 50,000 IU cholecalciferol every two weeks, while the control group received a placebo.
After the treatment period, we observed that the participants who received the vitamin D3 experienced a significant reduction in depression severity, as measured by the Beck Depression Inventory-II. Interestingly, this improvement in mood occurred independently of any changes in inflammatory biomarkers like IL-1β, IL-6, and hs-CRP, which we also assessed during the study.
This indicates that while vitamin D supplementation may positively impact depressive symptoms, its effects are not directly linked to the inflammatory markers we evaluated. Our findings suggest that vitamin D3 could be a helpful addition to depression treatment strategies, particularly in individuals with low vitamin D levels.
After the treatment period, we observed that the participants who received the vitamin D3 experienced a significant reduction in depression severity, as measured by the Beck Depression Inventory-II. Interestingly, this improvement in mood occurred independently of any changes in inflammatory biomarkers like IL-1β, IL-6, and hs-CRP, which we also assessed during the study.
This indicates that while vitamin D supplementation may positively impact depressive symptoms, its effects are not directly linked to the inflammatory markers we evaluated. Our findings suggest that vitamin D3 could be a helpful addition to depression treatment strategies, particularly in individuals with low vitamin D levels.
Read More
9
Vitamin D supports depression management
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.
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
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.
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.
Read More
Most Useful Reviews
9
Supports depression treatment
120 people found this helpful
Vitamin D regulates calcium and phosphorus absorption and enhances immunity, keeping skin youthful and reducing anxiety. With most people deficient, sunlight is insufficient, so supplementation is essential. NOW Vitamin D3 maintains optimal levels in the body. Always consult your doctor before use.
Read More
9
Improves well-being
101 people found this helpful
Taking vitamin D has been excellent for my well-being; no more spring blues or depression. I feel cheerful, and my wounds heal quickly. Before, they would become inflamed without healing creams. Overall, I’m really satisfied and plan to continue taking it.
Read More
9
Less anxiety
90 people found this helpful
The capsules are small and easy to swallow. I take them after breakfast, and I've felt a noticeable improvement; it's now much easier to sleep and wake up. I haven’t had many colds, and before this, I frequently suffered from respiratory infections and seasonal depression.
Read More
Medical Researches
SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Possibly Effective
Based on 30 Researches
7
- All Researches
9
Vitamin D and Magnesium Aid Depression
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.
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
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.
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
9
Calcitriol impacts depression positively
We explored how calcitriol, the active form of vitamin D3, impacts depression linked to neuroinflammation. Using a well-structured study with control and experimental groups, we examined the effects of calcitriol on mice exposed to lipopolysaccharide (LPS), a substance that induces depressive-like behavior and neuroinflammation.
During our experiments, we found that calcitriol not only reduced the inflammatory response in brain cells but also improved behavioral symptoms associated with depression. In particular, it lowered the levels of inflammation-related molecules while promoting anti-inflammatory ones in the brain's hippocampus, an area important for mood and memory.
We observed that calcitriol helped alleviate some of the negative behavioral effects triggered by LPS. The treatment also appeared to prevent the activation of microglia, the brain's immune cells, by interfering with a specific signaling pathway involved in inflammation.
Overall, our findings suggest that vitamin D3 could offer promising benefits as a treatment for depression by tackling neuroinflammation and protecting neuronal health.
During our experiments, we found that calcitriol not only reduced the inflammatory response in brain cells but also improved behavioral symptoms associated with depression. In particular, it lowered the levels of inflammation-related molecules while promoting anti-inflammatory ones in the brain's hippocampus, an area important for mood and memory.
We observed that calcitriol helped alleviate some of the negative behavioral effects triggered by LPS. The treatment also appeared to prevent the activation of microglia, the brain's immune cells, by interfering with a specific signaling pathway involved in inflammation.
Overall, our findings suggest that vitamin D3 could offer promising benefits as a treatment for depression by tackling neuroinflammation and protecting neuronal health.
Read More
9
We looked at how vitamin D3 could help combat depression, especially in the context of chronic stress. The study involved 40 male Wistar rats, divided into different groups to compare the effects of vitamin D3, the antidepressant fluoxetine, and a combination of both.
The rats underwent 21 days of mild but unpredictable stress, simulating conditions often linked to depression. To measure the effects, we conducted several behavioral tests and collected blood samples to assess hormonal changes.
Results showed that vitamin D3 had a positive impact similar to fluoxetine on the rats' depressive behaviors. Specifically, we found that vitamin D3 improved results in key behavioral tests, suggesting it can help protect against stress-induced anxiety and depression.
Notably, the levels of corticosterone, a stress hormone, were lower in rats that received vitamin D3, indicating a protective effect. Overall, this study emphasizes the potential of vitamin D3 in alleviating depressive symptoms resulting from chronic stress.
The rats underwent 21 days of mild but unpredictable stress, simulating conditions often linked to depression. To measure the effects, we conducted several behavioral tests and collected blood samples to assess hormonal changes.
Results showed that vitamin D3 had a positive impact similar to fluoxetine on the rats' depressive behaviors. Specifically, we found that vitamin D3 improved results in key behavioral tests, suggesting it can help protect against stress-induced anxiety and depression.
Notably, the levels of corticosterone, a stress hormone, were lower in rats that received vitamin D3, indicating a protective effect. Overall, this study emphasizes the potential of vitamin D3 in alleviating depressive symptoms resulting from chronic stress.
Read More
9
Vitamin D3 improves depressive symptoms
We conducted a double-blind randomized clinical trial to explore the effects of vitamin D3 supplementation on depression. Our study involved 56 adults with mild to moderate depression, who were assigned to either a vitamin D group or a placebo group. Over the course of eight weeks, the vitamin D group received a high dose of 50,000 IU cholecalciferol every two weeks, while the control group received a placebo.
After the treatment period, we observed that the participants who received the vitamin D3 experienced a significant reduction in depression severity, as measured by the Beck Depression Inventory-II. Interestingly, this improvement in mood occurred independently of any changes in inflammatory biomarkers like IL-1β, IL-6, and hs-CRP, which we also assessed during the study.
This indicates that while vitamin D supplementation may positively impact depressive symptoms, its effects are not directly linked to the inflammatory markers we evaluated. Our findings suggest that vitamin D3 could be a helpful addition to depression treatment strategies, particularly in individuals with low vitamin D levels.
After the treatment period, we observed that the participants who received the vitamin D3 experienced a significant reduction in depression severity, as measured by the Beck Depression Inventory-II. Interestingly, this improvement in mood occurred independently of any changes in inflammatory biomarkers like IL-1β, IL-6, and hs-CRP, which we also assessed during the study.
This indicates that while vitamin D supplementation may positively impact depressive symptoms, its effects are not directly linked to the inflammatory markers we evaluated. Our findings suggest that vitamin D3 could be a helpful addition to depression treatment strategies, particularly in individuals with low vitamin D levels.
Read More
User Reviews
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 103 Reviews
8
- All Reviews
- Positive Reviews
- Negative Reviews
9
Supports depression treatment
120 people found this helpful
Vitamin D regulates calcium and phosphorus absorption and enhances immunity, keeping skin youthful and reducing anxiety. With most people deficient, sunlight is insufficient, so supplementation is essential. NOW Vitamin D3 maintains optimal levels in the body. Always consult your doctor before use.
Read More
9
Improves well-being
101 people found this helpful
Taking vitamin D has been excellent for my well-being; no more spring blues or depression. I feel cheerful, and my wounds heal quickly. Before, they would become inflamed without healing creams. Overall, I’m really satisfied and plan to continue taking it.
Read More
9
Less anxiety
90 people found this helpful
The capsules are small and easy to swallow. I take them after breakfast, and I've felt a noticeable improvement; it's now much easier to sleep and wake up. I haven’t had many colds, and before this, I frequently suffered from respiratory infections and seasonal depression.
Read More
9
Improved sleep
90 people found this helpful
These small capsules are easy to swallow, and taking them with omega-3 has noticeably helped me. I've found it easier to fall asleep and wake up, and I rarely get colds now. Prior to this, I dealt with regular respiratory infections and seasonal depression.
Read More
9
Boosted energy
49 people found this helpful
Since starting this vitamin, my mood has significantly improved. I used to experience regular anxiety and depression, but now those feelings have diminished, and I enjoy a strong burst of energy in the mornings. I'm really pleased to have found this supplement.
Read More
Frequently Asked Questions
9
Improved mood quickly
16 people found this helpful
Amazing! I felt a difference in days after starting these. I rarely get sun, especially in winter, and I experienced depression. After taking one a day, I felt happier and more energised. I highly recommend these small capsules to everyone.
10
Mood improvements
6 people found this helpful
Suffering from mood swings and depression, I consulted my doctor, who advised checking my vitamin D levels. The results showed a severe deficiency, so I started on a Vitamin D and fish oil regimen. Two months later, my levels doubled, and I feel energetic, with a normalised appetite and weight loss. I honestly didn’t expect such a significant improvement just from vitamins. I highly recommend this product for anyone with low vitamin D!
10
Depression relief
6 people found this helpful
Vitamin D transformed my life! At over 50, I struggled with seasonal depression and fatigue. A competent endocrinologist tested my vitamin D levels, which were alarmingly low. After taking a high dosage, my levels improved and my mood lifted dramatically. I no longer experience depression! I’ve also gained excellent immunity. My colleagues have been ill, but I haven't caught anything since I began this daily regimen of Vitamin D3. I highly recommend it!
9
Felt brighter
36 people found this helpful
After taking vitamin D, my mood transformed. I've been experiencing depression and feelings of anxiety, but after daily walks and this supplement, I feel much better. It's remarkable how effective it has been; I no longer suffer from my previous emotional struggles.
9
Boosted energy
49 people found this helpful
Since starting this vitamin, my mood has significantly improved. I used to experience regular anxiety and depression, but now those feelings have diminished, and I enjoy a strong burst of energy in the mornings. I'm really pleased to have found this supplement.
7.5
Mental health boost
5 people found this helpful
I’ve taken various supplements, but this one seems the most effective for mental health, particularly in alleviating depression and anxiety. The synergistic effect with Omega 3 feels refreshing, and I would recommend it to anyone, especially postpartum.
9
Happiness restored
4 people found this helpful
Since starting vitamin D, my feelings of depression and nervousness have disappeared. I’ve been very happy for eight months now and am incredibly pleased with the results.
9
Improved sleep
90 people found this helpful
These small capsules are easy to swallow, and taking them with omega-3 has noticeably helped me. I've found it easier to fall asleep and wake up, and I rarely get colds now. Prior to this, I dealt with regular respiratory infections and seasonal depression.
8
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.
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
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.
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
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.
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.
8
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.
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.
4
We aimed to explore the potential effects of vitamin D on depression by analyzing a vast dataset that included various micronutrients and psychiatric disorders. Our findings highlighted that vitamin D levels were associated with a reduced risk of depression and emotional disorders.
Notably, we observed that higher levels of vitamin D seemed to play a beneficial role in lowering depression risk. This suggests that maintaining adequate vitamin D levels could be an essential factor in supporting mental health.
However, while we identified links between vitamin D and other psychiatric conditions, it's crucial to understand that results can vary among individuals. Overall, our analysis lays the groundwork for further investigations into how vitamin D can be integrated into treatments for mental health issues like depression.
Notably, we observed that higher levels of vitamin D seemed to play a beneficial role in lowering depression risk. This suggests that maintaining adequate vitamin D levels could be an essential factor in supporting mental health.
However, while we identified links between vitamin D and other psychiatric conditions, it's crucial to understand that results can vary among individuals. Overall, our analysis lays the groundwork for further investigations into how vitamin D can be integrated into treatments for mental health issues like depression.
9
Vitamin D3 improves depressive symptoms
We conducted a double-blind randomized clinical trial to explore the effects of vitamin D3 supplementation on depression. Our study involved 56 adults with mild to moderate depression, who were assigned to either a vitamin D group or a placebo group. Over the course of eight weeks, the vitamin D group received a high dose of 50,000 IU cholecalciferol every two weeks, while the control group received a placebo.
After the treatment period, we observed that the participants who received the vitamin D3 experienced a significant reduction in depression severity, as measured by the Beck Depression Inventory-II. Interestingly, this improvement in mood occurred independently of any changes in inflammatory biomarkers like IL-1β, IL-6, and hs-CRP, which we also assessed during the study.
This indicates that while vitamin D supplementation may positively impact depressive symptoms, its effects are not directly linked to the inflammatory markers we evaluated. Our findings suggest that vitamin D3 could be a helpful addition to depression treatment strategies, particularly in individuals with low vitamin D levels.
After the treatment period, we observed that the participants who received the vitamin D3 experienced a significant reduction in depression severity, as measured by the Beck Depression Inventory-II. Interestingly, this improvement in mood occurred independently of any changes in inflammatory biomarkers like IL-1β, IL-6, and hs-CRP, which we also assessed during the study.
This indicates that while vitamin D supplementation may positively impact depressive symptoms, its effects are not directly linked to the inflammatory markers we evaluated. Our findings suggest that vitamin D3 could be a helpful addition to depression treatment strategies, particularly in individuals with low vitamin D levels.
4
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.
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.
8
Fortified yogurt benefits depression treatment
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.
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.
References
- Askarpour M, Hejazi N, Jahromi BN, Eskandari MH, Famouri M, et al. 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. Prev Nutr Food Sci. 2025;30:37. 10.3746/pnf.2025.30.1.37
- 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
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