Medical Researches
Possibly Effective
Based on 3 Researches
Exploration of Nutrient EffectsFour-way decomposition of the effects of nutrient supplement and physical exercise on depression among older Chinese: a nationwide cross-sectional analysis.
Moderate relevance to iron effects
We studied how nutrient supplements, particularly iron, and physical exercise influence depression among older adults in China. Our analysis included 8,427 participants, and we used established tools to measure depression and collect information about their supplement and exercise habits.
Interestingly, we found that 26.2% of the older adults reported suffering from depression. Among the various nutrients studied, we discovered that receiving nutrient supplements, like calcium and multivitamins, was linked to lower depression scores and reduced risk of depression. However, the effects of iron alone could not be isolated due to the combination with other nutrients in the supplements.
Our analysis revealed that physical exercise played a role in mediating the relationship between certain nutrients and depression. This means that for some participants, staying active could enhance the positive effects of nutrient supplementation on their mood. Nevertheless, it is essential to note that there wasn't enough evidence to conclusively state that iron specifically improves depression despite being part of the nutrient mix explored.
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We set out to explore the connection between iron levels and mental health in pregnant women, focusing on how iron treatment may influence depressive symptoms. Our study recruited participants in their first trimester and followed them through their second and third trimesters, assessing their iron status and psychosocial wellbeing along the way.
Findings revealed that improvements in ferritin levels during the first and second trimesters were associated with fewer depressive symptoms and a better overall quality of life. This suggests that boosting iron levels in early pregnancy could potentially benefit mental health. Moreover, we discovered that increases in hemoglobin were linked to reduced anxiety, particularly feelings of fear, highlighting another positive aspect of improved iron status.
However, the results were more mixed in the later stages of pregnancy. While improvements in transferrin saturation from the second to the third trimester were connected to greater anxiety and a decline in quality of life, the initial positive effects underline the importance of monitoring and managing iron levels throughout pregnancy.
Overall, our findings hint at a beneficial relationship between iron status and psychosocial wellbeing, particularly in early pregnancy. However, more extensive studies are needed to confirm these promising results and better understand the nuances of this connection.
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We undertook a detailed study to examine the effects of iron on major depressive disorder (MDD) and recurrent depression (rMDD) using a method called Mendelian randomisation. This approach allows us to look at how genetic data can help us understand the causal relationships between micronutrient levels and depression.
Our findings suggest that there’s some weak evidence indicating that higher levels of serum iron might actually protect against the risk of experiencing major depression. We observed that with each standard increase in serum iron, the odds of developing rMDD decreased slightly. This implies that maintaining good iron levels could potentially play a role in mood regulation.
However, it's important to note that while we found some positive associations related to iron, our results didn't show a strong or definitive effect of iron or other micronutrients on depression overall. In fact, the study also raised concerns about the possibility of adverse effects from excessive selenium and magnesium levels, which warrants further investigation.
Overall, while iron might have some beneficial associations regarding depression, the evidence isn’t robust enough to recommend supplementation without considering the potential risks involved. Future studies should focus on larger-scale trials to provide clearer insights into the efficacy and safety of micronutrient treatments for depression.
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User Reviews
I take this iron due to very low ferritin levels which caused fatigue and depression. After using it with probiotics at night, I've noticed cold hands and feet, mood swings, and constant tiredness are a thing of the past!
After my father's death, I became depressed and anaemic. Despite taking prescribed iron supplements, my condition worsened until I found a regimen that worked for me. Combining iron with Vitamin C, I experienced a significant rise in ferritin levels in just a month, so I continue to take it.
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Taking iron supplements has significantly helped my mood and motivation amidst my struggles with prenatal and postnatal depression due to iron deficiency. I continue to take iron regularly, and it makes a notable difference in my general well-being.
After being diagnosed with severe iron deficiency anemia, I started taking this supplement as prescribed. The changes I've felt have been remarkable—my depression has lifted, and I've regained my energy and vitality.
Iron bisglycinate is the best form for absorption. After months of use due to low ferritin levels, I haven't yet retested my blood but did notice an initial excitement followed by stability in mood. My menstrual blood loss has decreased. A reasonable psychiatrist will check ferritin levels in those with depression, as low ferritin can be a contributing factor.
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