Overview
SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Possibly Effective
Based on 10 Researches
7.5
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 4 Reviews
8.1
Supplement Facts
Serving Size: 1 Tablet
Amount Per Serving
%DV
Vitamin C (as Ascorbic Acid)
1 g (1,000 mg)
1111%
Rose Hips Powder (Rosa canina) (fruit)
25 mg
†
Top Medical Research Studies
8
This study aimed to understand how dietary vitamin C affects depression in adults. By analyzing data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey spanning from 2005 to 2020, we focused on the relationship between vitamin C intake and depression levels among 38,157 participants.
Our findings revealed that individuals who consumed higher amounts of vitamin C had lower odds of experiencing depression. Specifically, those in the higher intake quartiles showed significantly reduced odds compared to those with the lowest intake. Interestingly, we discovered an L-shaped curve representing the relationship between vitamin C and depression, suggesting that while increased intake was beneficial up to a certain point (around 93.61 mg), higher consumption did not yield additional benefits.
While our results are promising, it's crucial to note that this was a cross-sectional study, meaning we cannot definitively claim that vitamin C intake causes changes in depression. Additionally, other factors might have influenced these associations, which we couldn't fully control for.
Overall, this research provides intriguing evidence of the potential role that dietary vitamin C might play in alleviating depressive symptoms, especially for those consuming lower amounts.
Our findings revealed that individuals who consumed higher amounts of vitamin C had lower odds of experiencing depression. Specifically, those in the higher intake quartiles showed significantly reduced odds compared to those with the lowest intake. Interestingly, we discovered an L-shaped curve representing the relationship between vitamin C and depression, suggesting that while increased intake was beneficial up to a certain point (around 93.61 mg), higher consumption did not yield additional benefits.
While our results are promising, it's crucial to note that this was a cross-sectional study, meaning we cannot definitively claim that vitamin C intake causes changes in depression. Additionally, other factors might have influenced these associations, which we couldn't fully control for.
Overall, this research provides intriguing evidence of the potential role that dietary vitamin C might play in alleviating depressive symptoms, especially for those consuming lower amounts.
Read More
7
We explored whether consuming SunGold kiwifruit could help restore sufficient vitamin C levels in people who have suffered from severe respiratory infections. Over six weeks, participants consumed two kiwifruits a day, which is about 300 mg of vitamin C.
Before the study, many participants had low intakes of fruits and vegetables, and their vitamin C levels were often inadequate. After the kiwifruit intervention, we observed that around 80% of the participants managed to boost their vitamin C levels to a good range.
Notably, along with improved vitamin C status, participants reported less fatigue and fewer feelings of depression. This suggests that vitamin C might play a role in enhancing mood, although further investigation is needed to fully understand its effects.
However, about 20% of the participants still struggled to reach adequate vitamin C levels, especially those who smoked or had higher body weight. Overall, our findings indicate that adding kiwifruit to the diet may provide mood-enhancing benefits while improving vitamin C status.
Before the study, many participants had low intakes of fruits and vegetables, and their vitamin C levels were often inadequate. After the kiwifruit intervention, we observed that around 80% of the participants managed to boost their vitamin C levels to a good range.
Notably, along with improved vitamin C status, participants reported less fatigue and fewer feelings of depression. This suggests that vitamin C might play a role in enhancing mood, although further investigation is needed to fully understand its effects.
However, about 20% of the participants still struggled to reach adequate vitamin C levels, especially those who smoked or had higher body weight. Overall, our findings indicate that adding kiwifruit to the diet may provide mood-enhancing benefits while improving vitamin C status.
Read More
8
We explored the connection between serum ascorbic acid levels—commonly known as vitamin C—and depression in US adults. The study involved data from over 3,400 participants from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. By comparing individuals diagnosed with depression to those without, we aimed to uncover whether higher vitamin C levels could be linked to lower rates of depression.
Our findings were quite revealing. We observed that individuals with depression had significantly lower serum ascorbic acid levels compared to non-depressed individuals. Specifically, the average vitamin C level in those with depression was about 43 μmol/L, while it was around 53 μmol/L for those without depression.
The research indicated a clear trend: as vitamin C levels increased, the prevalence of depression decreased. In fact, the data showed that individuals in the highest quartile of vitamin C levels had a depression prevalence of just 5.4%, compared to 12.0% in the lowest quartile.
While this correlation suggests that higher vitamin C levels might help reduce the risk of depression, it’s important to note that the study did not test vitamin C as a treatment for depression directly. Therefore, while the association is noteworthy, we cannot definitively say that vitamin C supplementation will resolve depressive symptoms.
Our findings were quite revealing. We observed that individuals with depression had significantly lower serum ascorbic acid levels compared to non-depressed individuals. Specifically, the average vitamin C level in those with depression was about 43 μmol/L, while it was around 53 μmol/L for those without depression.
The research indicated a clear trend: as vitamin C levels increased, the prevalence of depression decreased. In fact, the data showed that individuals in the highest quartile of vitamin C levels had a depression prevalence of just 5.4%, compared to 12.0% in the lowest quartile.
While this correlation suggests that higher vitamin C levels might help reduce the risk of depression, it’s important to note that the study did not test vitamin C as a treatment for depression directly. Therefore, while the association is noteworthy, we cannot definitively say that vitamin C supplementation will resolve depressive symptoms.
Read More
Most Useful Reviews
9
Improved mood stability
I love that it's natural and it doesn't taste bad at all! A little citrusy, but that's understandable. Although the pills are larger, they are manageable. I take it as an addition to help with my depression, and it has made a significant difference! I feel much happier, and my moods have become far more stable. I will definitely continue to purchase this! :)
Read More
6
Gentle effect noted
7 people found this helpful
If you chew, it will stick to your teeth. It cannot be given to children as it adheres to the teeth when chewed. I heard that vitamin C is beneficial for menopausal disorders, so I purchased it, but the effect is not immediate as it is a sustained-release vitamin C. Inexpensive vitamin C made in Japan works faster. For menopausal issues, chest palpitations subside, and depression can be alleviated within about 30 minutes. This one is gentle, so the effects aren't felt immediately. I think starting with 100 tablets is advisable.
Read More
7.5
No more depression
A very good product. I have been taking three tablets a day for a month now. Due to the pandemic, the lingering runny nose has dissipated, I find it easier to wake up in the morning, and there is no lingering depression in winter. I am very pleased with this product.
Read More
Medical Researches
SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Possibly Effective
Based on 10 Researches
7.5
- All Researches
9
Vitamin C counters stress-related depression
We explored the impact of vitamin C on anxiety and depression behaviors prompted by chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) in adolescent male rats. The study investigated whether exposure to this type of stress during adolescence could lead to mood-related issues in adulthood, and if vitamin C could help alleviate these problems.
Our research utilized several behavioral tests to measure anxiety and depression levels. We also examined how CUMS affected serotonin metabolism, inflammation levels, oxidative stress, and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in the brain tissue of the rats.
Our findings indicated that CUMS indeed worsened mood-related behaviors by negatively affecting the brain's balance between oxidative stress, inflammation, and serotonin levels. However, rats that received both CUMS treatment and vitamin C showed promising results. This co-treatment helped reverse the negative effects induced by CUMS, suggesting that vitamin C may restore the disturbed biochemical parameters.
Overall, we propose that vitamin C supplementation could be a safe and effective strategy for managing stress-induced anxiety and depression.
Our research utilized several behavioral tests to measure anxiety and depression levels. We also examined how CUMS affected serotonin metabolism, inflammation levels, oxidative stress, and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in the brain tissue of the rats.
Our findings indicated that CUMS indeed worsened mood-related behaviors by negatively affecting the brain's balance between oxidative stress, inflammation, and serotonin levels. However, rats that received both CUMS treatment and vitamin C showed promising results. This co-treatment helped reverse the negative effects induced by CUMS, suggesting that vitamin C may restore the disturbed biochemical parameters.
Overall, we propose that vitamin C supplementation could be a safe and effective strategy for managing stress-induced anxiety and depression.
Read More
8
Vitamin C alleviates withdrawal depression
We explored the effects of vitamin C on anxiety and depression linked to abstinence from nicotine and ethanol in adolescent male rats. The study was carefully structured, dividing the rats into several groups, including a control group and various treatment groups receiving different doses of vitamin C during the withdrawal phase.
Our results suggested that vitamin C supplementation effectively reduced anxiety- and depressive-like behaviors. This was observed through various behavioral tests, such as the elevated plus maze and forced swimming test, indicating that the rats receiving vitamin C exhibited improved mood and reduced anxiety.
Notably, vitamin C appeared to enhance the antioxidant defense system, lower inflammation, and promote serotonin levels—important factors in mood regulation. While there were many facets at play due to the combined effects of nicotine and ethanol, the positive impact of vitamin C supplementation stands out as a potential therapeutic approach for managing withdrawal symptoms.
Overall, the findings highlight vitamin C's promising role in improving mental health during challenging withdrawal periods, making it a valuable supplement for further exploration in human studies.
Our results suggested that vitamin C supplementation effectively reduced anxiety- and depressive-like behaviors. This was observed through various behavioral tests, such as the elevated plus maze and forced swimming test, indicating that the rats receiving vitamin C exhibited improved mood and reduced anxiety.
Notably, vitamin C appeared to enhance the antioxidant defense system, lower inflammation, and promote serotonin levels—important factors in mood regulation. While there were many facets at play due to the combined effects of nicotine and ethanol, the positive impact of vitamin C supplementation stands out as a potential therapeutic approach for managing withdrawal symptoms.
Overall, the findings highlight vitamin C's promising role in improving mental health during challenging withdrawal periods, making it a valuable supplement for further exploration in human studies.
Read More
8
We examined how midlife dietary intake of antioxidants, including vitamin C, relates to depressive symptoms in older age among a large group of Chinese participants in Singapore. By analyzing data from over 13,000 individuals, we were able to see clear patterns connecting antioxidant consumption—specifically from vitamins C and E, as well as carotenoids and flavonoids—to mental health outcomes.
Participants, initially assessed at a mean age of 52, were later evaluated for depressive symptoms around age 73. The results revealed that higher intakes of antioxidants were linked with reduced odds of experiencing depression. In fact, those with the highest consumption showed significantly lower likelihoods of developing depressive symptoms.
This reinforces the importance of an antioxidant-rich diet, suggesting that such dietary choices might help in preventing depression in later life. Though we didn't isolate vitamin C's effects from the other antioxidants, its presence in a balanced diet could contribute positively to mental health.
Participants, initially assessed at a mean age of 52, were later evaluated for depressive symptoms around age 73. The results revealed that higher intakes of antioxidants were linked with reduced odds of experiencing depression. In fact, those with the highest consumption showed significantly lower likelihoods of developing depressive symptoms.
This reinforces the importance of an antioxidant-rich diet, suggesting that such dietary choices might help in preventing depression in later life. Though we didn't isolate vitamin C's effects from the other antioxidants, its presence in a balanced diet could contribute positively to mental health.
Read More
8
This study aimed to understand how dietary vitamin C affects depression in adults. By analyzing data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey spanning from 2005 to 2020, we focused on the relationship between vitamin C intake and depression levels among 38,157 participants.
Our findings revealed that individuals who consumed higher amounts of vitamin C had lower odds of experiencing depression. Specifically, those in the higher intake quartiles showed significantly reduced odds compared to those with the lowest intake. Interestingly, we discovered an L-shaped curve representing the relationship between vitamin C and depression, suggesting that while increased intake was beneficial up to a certain point (around 93.61 mg), higher consumption did not yield additional benefits.
While our results are promising, it's crucial to note that this was a cross-sectional study, meaning we cannot definitively claim that vitamin C intake causes changes in depression. Additionally, other factors might have influenced these associations, which we couldn't fully control for.
Overall, this research provides intriguing evidence of the potential role that dietary vitamin C might play in alleviating depressive symptoms, especially for those consuming lower amounts.
Our findings revealed that individuals who consumed higher amounts of vitamin C had lower odds of experiencing depression. Specifically, those in the higher intake quartiles showed significantly reduced odds compared to those with the lowest intake. Interestingly, we discovered an L-shaped curve representing the relationship between vitamin C and depression, suggesting that while increased intake was beneficial up to a certain point (around 93.61 mg), higher consumption did not yield additional benefits.
While our results are promising, it's crucial to note that this was a cross-sectional study, meaning we cannot definitively claim that vitamin C intake causes changes in depression. Additionally, other factors might have influenced these associations, which we couldn't fully control for.
Overall, this research provides intriguing evidence of the potential role that dietary vitamin C might play in alleviating depressive symptoms, especially for those consuming lower amounts.
Read More
8
We explored the connection between serum ascorbic acid levels—commonly known as vitamin C—and depression in US adults. The study involved data from over 3,400 participants from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. By comparing individuals diagnosed with depression to those without, we aimed to uncover whether higher vitamin C levels could be linked to lower rates of depression.
Our findings were quite revealing. We observed that individuals with depression had significantly lower serum ascorbic acid levels compared to non-depressed individuals. Specifically, the average vitamin C level in those with depression was about 43 μmol/L, while it was around 53 μmol/L for those without depression.
The research indicated a clear trend: as vitamin C levels increased, the prevalence of depression decreased. In fact, the data showed that individuals in the highest quartile of vitamin C levels had a depression prevalence of just 5.4%, compared to 12.0% in the lowest quartile.
While this correlation suggests that higher vitamin C levels might help reduce the risk of depression, it’s important to note that the study did not test vitamin C as a treatment for depression directly. Therefore, while the association is noteworthy, we cannot definitively say that vitamin C supplementation will resolve depressive symptoms.
Our findings were quite revealing. We observed that individuals with depression had significantly lower serum ascorbic acid levels compared to non-depressed individuals. Specifically, the average vitamin C level in those with depression was about 43 μmol/L, while it was around 53 μmol/L for those without depression.
The research indicated a clear trend: as vitamin C levels increased, the prevalence of depression decreased. In fact, the data showed that individuals in the highest quartile of vitamin C levels had a depression prevalence of just 5.4%, compared to 12.0% in the lowest quartile.
While this correlation suggests that higher vitamin C levels might help reduce the risk of depression, it’s important to note that the study did not test vitamin C as a treatment for depression directly. Therefore, while the association is noteworthy, we cannot definitively say that vitamin C supplementation will resolve depressive symptoms.
Read More
User Reviews
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 4 Reviews
8.1
- All Reviews
- Positive Reviews
- Negative Reviews
9
Improved mood stability
I love that it's natural and it doesn't taste bad at all! A little citrusy, but that's understandable. Although the pills are larger, they are manageable. I take it as an addition to help with my depression, and it has made a significant difference! I feel much happier, and my moods have become far more stable. I will definitely continue to purchase this! :)
Read More
6
Gentle effect noted
7 people found this helpful
If you chew, it will stick to your teeth. It cannot be given to children as it adheres to the teeth when chewed. I heard that vitamin C is beneficial for menopausal disorders, so I purchased it, but the effect is not immediate as it is a sustained-release vitamin C. Inexpensive vitamin C made in Japan works faster. For menopausal issues, chest palpitations subside, and depression can be alleviated within about 30 minutes. This one is gentle, so the effects aren't felt immediately. I think starting with 100 tablets is advisable.
Read More
7.5
No more depression
A very good product. I have been taking three tablets a day for a month now. Due to the pandemic, the lingering runny nose has dissipated, I find it easier to wake up in the morning, and there is no lingering depression in winter. I am very pleased with this product.
Read More
7.5
Promotes better sleep
I bought this for my brother's depression. The pills are oval and large, requiring one to be taken at a time. There is no unpleasant taste. I decided on this supplement after reading Dr. Fujikawa's book. On the day he took this, my brother, who suffers from depression, was able to sleep soundly without needing sleeping pills.
Read More
Frequently Asked Questions
9
Improved mood stability
I love that it's natural and it doesn't taste bad at all! A little citrusy, but that's understandable. Although the pills are larger, they are manageable. I take it as an addition to help with my depression, and it has made a significant difference! I feel much happier, and my moods have become far more stable. I will definitely continue to purchase this! :)
7.5
No more depression
A very good product. I have been taking three tablets a day for a month now. Due to the pandemic, the lingering runny nose has dissipated, I find it easier to wake up in the morning, and there is no lingering depression in winter. I am very pleased with this product.
6
Gentle effect noted
7 people found this helpful
If you chew, it will stick to your teeth. It cannot be given to children as it adheres to the teeth when chewed. I heard that vitamin C is beneficial for menopausal disorders, so I purchased it, but the effect is not immediate as it is a sustained-release vitamin C. Inexpensive vitamin C made in Japan works faster. For menopausal issues, chest palpitations subside, and depression can be alleviated within about 30 minutes. This one is gentle, so the effects aren't felt immediately. I think starting with 100 tablets is advisable.
7.5
Promotes better sleep
I bought this for my brother's depression. The pills are oval and large, requiring one to be taken at a time. There is no unpleasant taste. I decided on this supplement after reading Dr. Fujikawa's book. On the day he took this, my brother, who suffers from depression, was able to sleep soundly without needing sleeping pills.
8
Vitamin C alleviates withdrawal depression
We explored the effects of vitamin C on anxiety and depression linked to abstinence from nicotine and ethanol in adolescent male rats. The study was carefully structured, dividing the rats into several groups, including a control group and various treatment groups receiving different doses of vitamin C during the withdrawal phase.
Our results suggested that vitamin C supplementation effectively reduced anxiety- and depressive-like behaviors. This was observed through various behavioral tests, such as the elevated plus maze and forced swimming test, indicating that the rats receiving vitamin C exhibited improved mood and reduced anxiety.
Notably, vitamin C appeared to enhance the antioxidant defense system, lower inflammation, and promote serotonin levels—important factors in mood regulation. While there were many facets at play due to the combined effects of nicotine and ethanol, the positive impact of vitamin C supplementation stands out as a potential therapeutic approach for managing withdrawal symptoms.
Overall, the findings highlight vitamin C's promising role in improving mental health during challenging withdrawal periods, making it a valuable supplement for further exploration in human studies.
Our results suggested that vitamin C supplementation effectively reduced anxiety- and depressive-like behaviors. This was observed through various behavioral tests, such as the elevated plus maze and forced swimming test, indicating that the rats receiving vitamin C exhibited improved mood and reduced anxiety.
Notably, vitamin C appeared to enhance the antioxidant defense system, lower inflammation, and promote serotonin levels—important factors in mood regulation. While there were many facets at play due to the combined effects of nicotine and ethanol, the positive impact of vitamin C supplementation stands out as a potential therapeutic approach for managing withdrawal symptoms.
Overall, the findings highlight vitamin C's promising role in improving mental health during challenging withdrawal periods, making it a valuable supplement for further exploration in human studies.
8
This study aimed to understand how dietary vitamin C affects depression in adults. By analyzing data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey spanning from 2005 to 2020, we focused on the relationship between vitamin C intake and depression levels among 38,157 participants.
Our findings revealed that individuals who consumed higher amounts of vitamin C had lower odds of experiencing depression. Specifically, those in the higher intake quartiles showed significantly reduced odds compared to those with the lowest intake. Interestingly, we discovered an L-shaped curve representing the relationship between vitamin C and depression, suggesting that while increased intake was beneficial up to a certain point (around 93.61 mg), higher consumption did not yield additional benefits.
While our results are promising, it's crucial to note that this was a cross-sectional study, meaning we cannot definitively claim that vitamin C intake causes changes in depression. Additionally, other factors might have influenced these associations, which we couldn't fully control for.
Overall, this research provides intriguing evidence of the potential role that dietary vitamin C might play in alleviating depressive symptoms, especially for those consuming lower amounts.
Our findings revealed that individuals who consumed higher amounts of vitamin C had lower odds of experiencing depression. Specifically, those in the higher intake quartiles showed significantly reduced odds compared to those with the lowest intake. Interestingly, we discovered an L-shaped curve representing the relationship between vitamin C and depression, suggesting that while increased intake was beneficial up to a certain point (around 93.61 mg), higher consumption did not yield additional benefits.
While our results are promising, it's crucial to note that this was a cross-sectional study, meaning we cannot definitively claim that vitamin C intake causes changes in depression. Additionally, other factors might have influenced these associations, which we couldn't fully control for.
Overall, this research provides intriguing evidence of the potential role that dietary vitamin C might play in alleviating depressive symptoms, especially for those consuming lower amounts.
5
Vitamin C's role in depression explored
We explored the relationship between vitamin C and depressive risk by analyzing data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2017-2018. This survey provided us with serum vitamin C levels and dietary intake information from participants, alongside their responses to a depression assessment tool.
Our analysis included 3,434 participants aged 20 and older, and we found that 18.7% had low serum vitamin C levels while 25.2% reported experiencing depressive symptoms. Interestingly, we observed a significant correlation between low vitamin C levels and higher depressive risk, suggesting that lower vitamin C might be associated with increased feelings of depression.
However, despite the observed association, when we applied Mendelian randomization methods to assess potential causal links, we discovered that there is no definitive cause-and-effect relationship between vitamin C levels and depression. This indicates that while there is a connection, vitamin C treatment does not appear to have a significant direct impact on alleviating depressive symptoms.
In conclusion, while our findings point to a strong correlation between vitamin C levels and depression risk, they do not support the idea that taking vitamin C can directly reduce depressive symptoms.
Our analysis included 3,434 participants aged 20 and older, and we found that 18.7% had low serum vitamin C levels while 25.2% reported experiencing depressive symptoms. Interestingly, we observed a significant correlation between low vitamin C levels and higher depressive risk, suggesting that lower vitamin C might be associated with increased feelings of depression.
However, despite the observed association, when we applied Mendelian randomization methods to assess potential causal links, we discovered that there is no definitive cause-and-effect relationship between vitamin C levels and depression. This indicates that while there is a connection, vitamin C treatment does not appear to have a significant direct impact on alleviating depressive symptoms.
In conclusion, while our findings point to a strong correlation between vitamin C levels and depression risk, they do not support the idea that taking vitamin C can directly reduce depressive symptoms.
7
We set out to investigate how vitamin C, known for its antioxidant properties, might relate to the risk of depression. In our research, we examined data from various studies on psychiatric conditions, which helped us to look at the genetic factors linked to vitamin C levels and their potential effects on mental health.
Our analysis revealed a significant association between genetic variations affecting vitamin C and major depressive disorder (MDD). Specifically, variations in vitamin C levels were linked to an increased risk of MDD. This suggests that vitamin C could play a role in mood regulation and mental well-being.
While we observed this connection, it's important to note that our findings did not establish a direct benefit of vitamin C treatment for depression specifically. Instead, they indicate that maintaining adequate levels of vitamin C might be crucial for reducing the risk of developing MDD.
Overall, our study highlights the potential importance of vitamin C in the context of mental health, particularly in relation to depression. However, further investigation is needed to clarify its role fully and whether it can be utilized as a treatment option on its own.
Our analysis revealed a significant association between genetic variations affecting vitamin C and major depressive disorder (MDD). Specifically, variations in vitamin C levels were linked to an increased risk of MDD. This suggests that vitamin C could play a role in mood regulation and mental well-being.
While we observed this connection, it's important to note that our findings did not establish a direct benefit of vitamin C treatment for depression specifically. Instead, they indicate that maintaining adequate levels of vitamin C might be crucial for reducing the risk of developing MDD.
Overall, our study highlights the potential importance of vitamin C in the context of mental health, particularly in relation to depression. However, further investigation is needed to clarify its role fully and whether it can be utilized as a treatment option on its own.
8
We conducted an evaluation of how vitamin C might enhance the effectiveness of escitalopram, a common antidepressant, in combating depression. In our experiment, we used male Swiss albino mice subjected to a model of depression induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Mice were divided into several groups, including those receiving escitalopram alone and those given a combination of escitalopram with vitamin C.
After a week of treatment, we saw promising results. The group treated with both escitalopram and vitamin C, along with vitamin D, showed a significant improvement in depressive symptoms compared to the group that received only LPS. This suggests that vitamin C, when used alongside escitalopram, may provide a beneficial boost in mood regulation.
It's important to note that while vitamin C appeared to enhance the antidepressant response, prominent sedation was observed in all treated groups, raising questions about the side effects. Additionally, we found that vitamin C helped restore levels of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) in the hippocampus, which is crucial for brain health and mood. Overall, our findings support the idea that vitamin C could be a valuable adjunct in depression treatment, emphasizing the need for further research in this area.
After a week of treatment, we saw promising results. The group treated with both escitalopram and vitamin C, along with vitamin D, showed a significant improvement in depressive symptoms compared to the group that received only LPS. This suggests that vitamin C, when used alongside escitalopram, may provide a beneficial boost in mood regulation.
It's important to note that while vitamin C appeared to enhance the antidepressant response, prominent sedation was observed in all treated groups, raising questions about the side effects. Additionally, we found that vitamin C helped restore levels of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) in the hippocampus, which is crucial for brain health and mood. Overall, our findings support the idea that vitamin C could be a valuable adjunct in depression treatment, emphasizing the need for further research in this area.
References
- Najafzadeh A, Mahdizadeh M, Kakhki S, Rahimi A, Ahmadi-Soleimani SM, et al. Ascorbic acid supplementation in adolescent rats ameliorates anxiety-like and depressive-like manifestations of nicotine-ethanol abstinence: Role of oxidative stress, inflammatory, and serotonergic mechanisms. Int J Dev Neurosci. 2025;85:e10392. doi:10.1002/jdn.10392
- Masoudi M, Goodarzi M, Rahmani MA, Rajabi M, Mahdizadeh M, et al. Vitamin C improved anxiety and depression like behavior induced by chronic unpredictable mild stress in adolescent rats by influencing on oxidative stress balance, neurotransmitter systems, and inflammatory response. Nutr Neurosci. 2024. doi:10.1080/1028415X.2024.2389499
- Cao Q, Hong A, Chen M, Wang C, Zhu M, et al. The association between vitamin C and depressive risk based on the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey of 2017-2018 and Mendelian randomization study. Am J Transl Res. 2024;16:5137. doi:10.62347/FXXD5655
- Li H, Sheng LT, Tai BC, Pan A, Koh WP. Association between Dietary Antioxidant Capacity in Midlife and Depressive Symptoms in Late Life: The Singapore Chinese Health Study. Antioxidants (Basel). 2024;13. doi:10.3390/antiox13050576
- Zhao D, Long X, Wang J. Association of dietary vitamin C intake with depression in adults: A cross-sectional study of NHANES from 2005 to 2020. J Affect Disord. 2024;358:113. doi:10.1016/j.jad.2024.05.032
- Lu Z, Yang Y, Zhao G, Zhang Y, Sun Y, et al. The Association of Redox Regulatory Drug Target Genes with Psychiatric Disorders: A Mendelian Randomization Study. Antioxidants (Basel). 2024;13. doi:10.3390/antiox13040398
- Vlasiuk E, Zawari M, Storer M, Maze MJ, Williman J, et al. SunGold Kiwifruit Consumption Restores Adequate to Optimal Vitamin C Status in People with a History of Severe Respiratory Infections. Antioxidants (Basel). 2024;13. doi:10.3390/antiox13030272
- Gammoh O, Ibrahim A, Yehya A, Alqudah A, Qnais E, et al. Exploring the Roles of Vitamins C and D and Etifoxine in Combination with Citalopram in Depression/Anxiety Model: A Focus on ICAM-1, SIRT1 and Nitric Oxide. Int J Mol Sci. 2024;25. doi:10.3390/ijms25041960
- Chen M, Luo H, Han Y, Li Y, Zhou L, et al. Higher serum ascorbic acid levels are associated with lower depression prevalence in US adults: a case-control study. Front Nutr. 2024;11:1324835. doi:10.3389/fnut.2024.1324835
- Gammoh O, Akasheh RT, Qnais E, Al-Taber S, Athamneh RY, et al. Unraveling the potential of vitamins C and D as adjuvants in depression treatment with escitalopram in an LPS animal model. Inflammopharmacology. 2024;32:1147. doi:10.1007/s10787-023-01404-9
