We explored the connection between vitamin B levels and depression in older adults over four years. Our study followed nearly 3,850 participants and found that those with low blood levels of vitamin B were significantly more likely to report depressive symptoms. Specifically, individuals with low vitamin B had a 51% higher chance of developing depression compared to those with adequate levels.
However, we did not find any significant link between folate levels and depression. These insights suggest that boosting vitamin B might be a simple, cost-effective way to help improve mental health in older adults.
Read More
2
Vitamin B12 shows no benefit for depression
Assessment of Vitamin B12 Efficacy on Cognitive Memory Function and Depressive Symptoms: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.
We assessed the effect of vitamin B12 supplementation on depressive symptoms by reviewing several randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Our analysis focused on participants who may experience mild cognitive impairment, an area where low vitamin B12 levels could potentially raise the risk of depression.
After a thorough examination of studies, we found that the included trials did not support a significant benefit of vitamin B12 for alleviating depressive symptoms. In our evaluation of three studies focusing specifically on depression, the average difference in symptoms was negligible, indicating no real effect.
This outcome reflects that while vitamin B12 is essential for various bodily functions, its role in improving mood and reducing depression symptoms may not be as effective as some might hope. Further exploration is still warranted to better understand the contexts in which vitamin B12 could be beneficial.
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9.5
Vitamin B12 relieves depressive symptoms
A new perspective on vitamin B12 deficiency in rheumatology: a case-based review.
We explored the impact of vitamin B12 supplementation on patients experiencing symptoms like depression, fatigue, and neuropathic pain—often linked with rheumatic diseases. Through our review of three case studies, we found that when these patients received vitamin B12 treatment, many of their depressive symptoms significantly improved.
The findings suggest that vitamin B12 may play a crucial role in alleviating not just physical discomfort, but also mental health issues like depression, which can accompany rheumatic conditions. Despite the patients initially presenting normal vitamin B12 levels in lab tests, the supplementation showed almost complete resolution of their symptoms, highlighting that clinical evaluations should not solely depend on blood test results.
In summary, we recommend that healthcare professionals consider assessing vitamin B12 levels early on when diagnosing rheumatic diseases and think about supplementation even if serum levels appear adequate. This approach might offer a straightforward and effective option for improving patients' quality of life.
Read More
Most Useful Reviews
10
Depression alleviated
23 people found this helpful
A beautiful product! To be brief, my depression has passed, and I have experienced less hair loss.
Read More
9
Mood improved greatly
11 people found this helpful
Very effective! I can't say much about strengthening hair and nails, but it certainly has helped my nervous system! I've been taking them for two weeks, and during this time my apathy vanished. I now wake up in a good mood, and my postpartum depression is gone! I recommend it to anyone needing to heal their nerves.
Read More
10
Energising effects
1 people found this helpful
Verified purchase from Solgar! It works! My brain feels alert, I have more energy, and my depression has lifted! The taste is also pleasant.
We explored the impact of vitamin B12 supplementation on patients experiencing symptoms like depression, fatigue, and neuropathic pain—often linked with rheumatic diseases. Through our review of three case studies, we found that when these patients received vitamin B12 treatment, many of their depressive symptoms significantly improved.
The findings suggest that vitamin B12 may play a crucial role in alleviating not just physical discomfort, but also mental health issues like depression, which can accompany rheumatic conditions. Despite the patients initially presenting normal vitamin B12 levels in lab tests, the supplementation showed almost complete resolution of their symptoms, highlighting that clinical evaluations should not solely depend on blood test results.
In summary, we recommend that healthcare professionals consider assessing vitamin B12 levels early on when diagnosing rheumatic diseases and think about supplementation even if serum levels appear adequate. This approach might offer a straightforward and effective option for improving patients' quality of life.
Read More
9
Vitamin B12 deficiency linked to MDD
Vitamin B12 and homocysteine in patients with major depressive disorder.
We explored the relationship between vitamin B12 levels and major depressive disorder (MDD) by examining serum vitamin B12, homocysteine (Hcy), and blood profiles in 59 patients diagnosed with MDD. The severity of depression was evaluated using the HAM-D scale, which allows for a clear understanding of how vitamin B12 might be linked to depressive symptoms.
Our findings revealed that vitamin B12 was deficient or depleted in all patients. The average level of serum vitamin B12 was significantly lower in those experiencing severe depression. Furthermore, we observed that the mean Hcy level was high among the participants, compared to normal reference ranges. Interestingly, we noted that patients who included non-vegetarian foods in their diet had higher median levels of vitamin B12.
Overall, our results indicate that there’s a notable correlation between vitamin B12 deficiency and the severity of MDD. Hcy levels were also elevated in these patients. Importantly, the study highlighted that depressive symptoms might appear before the more recognized blood-related manifestations of vitamin B12 deficiency. Thus, our observations suggest that addressing vitamin B12 status could be relevant in managing depressive disorders.
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8
Vitamin B shows potential in depression
[Effects of Vitamin B on Behaviors, Brain Monoamine Neurotransmitters, and Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor in Depressive Rats].
We looked into how Vitamin B could change behaviors and brain chemistry in rats experiencing depression-like symptoms. Rats were split into groups to compare a control group, one exposed to chronic mild stress, and a group receiving Vitamin B injections.
Results showed that Vitamin B helped boost levels of key neurotransmitters associated with mood, reducing anxiety and depressive behaviors. It also positively impacted brain cell health by activating important signaling pathways.
Overall, Vitamin B appears promising in helping to combat depression-related issues in this rat model.
We explored how vitamin B12 influences stress resilience and depression using sophisticated methods in a mouse model. Our findings linked vitamin B12 supplementation to changes in a gene called Ttr, which plays a role in managing stress.
Interestingly, we noticed that vitamin B12 reduced genetic markers associated with stress in specific areas of the brain. This important discovery encourages further research into how dietary changes might help improve mood disorders.
Read More
8
Vitamin B affects depression risk
Low vitamin B but not folate is associated with incident depressive symptoms in community-dwelling older adults: a 4-year longitudinal study.
We explored the connection between vitamin B levels and depression in older adults over four years. Our study followed nearly 3,850 participants and found that those with low blood levels of vitamin B were significantly more likely to report depressive symptoms. Specifically, individuals with low vitamin B had a 51% higher chance of developing depression compared to those with adequate levels.
However, we did not find any significant link between folate levels and depression. These insights suggest that boosting vitamin B might be a simple, cost-effective way to help improve mental health in older adults.
A beautiful product! To be brief, my depression has passed, and I have experienced less hair loss.
Read More
9
Mood improved greatly
11 people found this helpful
Very effective! I can't say much about strengthening hair and nails, but it certainly has helped my nervous system! I've been taking them for two weeks, and during this time my apathy vanished. I now wake up in a good mood, and my postpartum depression is gone! I recommend it to anyone needing to heal their nerves.
Read More
10
Energising effects
1 people found this helpful
Verified purchase from Solgar! It works! My brain feels alert, I have more energy, and my depression has lifted! The taste is also pleasant.
Read More
9
Recommended for anxiety
1 people found this helpful
Excellent quality product, 100% recommended for anxiety, stress, memory loss, and depression. It contains perfect ingredients and quantity for two months. I suggest all those with these issues take this product; please share with others so they can benefit as well.
Read More
9
Postpartum relief
Solgar power! I can't comment on strengthening my hair and nails, but it has certainly helped my nervous system! I’ve been taking them for two weeks, and during this time my apathy has disappeared. I wake up feeling good, and my postpartum depression is gone! I highly recommend it for anyone needing to improve their nerves.
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 B12, also known as cobalamin, is a water-soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in several vital functions in the human body. It is essential for red blood cell formation, neurological function, and DNA synthesis. Naturally occurring in animal products, the vitamin can be found in high concentrations in meat, fish, eggs, and dairy, making it particularly important for those following a vegetarian or vegan diet, as plant-based sources of B12 are limited and often require supplementation.
A deficiency in vitamin B12 can lead to serious health issues, including anemia, fatigue, memory problems, and nerve damage. Due to its significance, it's crucial for individuals, particularly those at risk of deficiency, to ensure adequate intake through diet or supplementation. For most adults, the recommended daily allowance (RDA) is around 2.4 micrograms, though pregnant or breastfeeding women may require higher amounts. If you're considering B12 supplements, it's advisable to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best option for your specific needs and health status.
Vitamin B12 is often discussed in relation to mental health, including depression. Some studies suggest that a deficiency in B12 can lead to mood disturbances or exacerbate existing mental health conditions, including depression. This vitamin plays a critical role in the formation of red blood cells and the maintenance of the nervous system. A lack of it can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, and mood swings, which might mimic or contribute to symptoms of depression.
However, while correcting a B12 deficiency may improve mood and overall mental health in individuals who are deficient, the relationship between B12 supplementation and the treatment of depression in people with normal levels of the vitamin is less clear. Current evidence does not definitively support the use of B12 supplements as a standalone treatment for depression. For those struggling with depressive symptoms, it’s essential to consult a healthcare provider for a comprehensive approach that may include therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes alongside any necessary nutritional supplementation.
Users report varying timelines for experiencing improvements in depression when taking this supplement. Some individuals, like those sharing their experiences after two weeks, have noted a significant uplift in their mood and a decrease in depressive symptoms, indicating that consistent use during this period can yield positive results. For instance, one user stated that their postpartum depression disappeared after just two weeks of use while another expressed feeling more alert and energetic within the same timeframe Read ReviewRead Review.
Others have experienced changes in mood and energy levels over longer durations. A user mentioned that their depressive symptoms had lifted significantly after incorporating the supplement into their routine, attributing their improved mental state to consistent use for a longer period. The general consensus among reviewers suggests that while some might see changes within two weeks, cumulative effects typically manifest over a month or more Read ReviewRead Review.
Vitamin B supplementation shows some promise in scientific studies related to depression, particularly concerning Vitamin B12 and various other B vitamins. Several studies have indicated that low levels of Vitamin B are linked to higher rates of depression in different populations. For instance, one study found that older adults with low blood levels of Vitamin B had a 51% increased likelihood of developing depressive symptoms compared to those with sufficient levels [4]. Moreover, animal studies suggest that Vitamin B12 may influence stress resilience and reduce depressive behaviors, highlighting its potential role in maintaining mental health [2].
While some evidence points toward the benefits of Vitamin B supplementation for mood disorders, the results are not uniformly positive. A comprehensive review concluded that despite some individuals experiencing improvements, the overall evidence for Vitamin B12 in alleviating depression remains inconclusive [19]. Additionally, multiple studies focus on specific populations, suggesting that while Vitamin B12 may benefit certain groups experiencing depression, it cannot be viewed as a universal solution [17]. Overall, while the associations are encouraging, further research is necessary to establish clearer causal connections and determine the most effective contexts for Vitamin B supplementation in depression treatment.
Based on user reviews, many individuals have reported notable improvements in their symptoms of depression after taking this supplement. For instance, one individual mentioned that their postpartum depression had diminished completely within just two weeks of use, and they now wake up feeling good and less apathetic Read Review. Similarly, another reviewer shared that they experienced a lift in their overall mood and increased energy levels after maintaining consistent use, suggesting that others might benefit similarly Read Review.
Additionally, some users have highlighted broader enhancements in mental well-being, including reduced anxiety and improved cognitive functions, contributing to an overall sense of happiness. A user even expressed a significant decrease in their depressive symptoms after switching to a related formulation, emphasizing the potential uplifting effects of these products Read Review. It’s important to note, however, that individual experiences can vary, and while some may notice changes within a fortnight, others might take longer to feel the benefits. This diverse feedback underscores the varied experiences users may encounter on their paths to improved mental health.
Users have reported positive experiences when combining this supplement with other nutritional support for handling depression. Many reviewers mentioned noticeable improvements in their depressive symptoms and overall mental well-being after taking this supplement alongside essential vitamins like B12. For instance, one user noted that they experienced a significant uplift in their mood after incorporating B12 into their regimen, highlighting its crucial role in alleviating symptoms of depression Read Review. Others have underscored the effectiveness of zinc as an adjunct treatment, indicating that it also contributes positively to managing depression Read Review.
Furthermore, users have frequently expressed that combining this supplement with other holistic approaches or dietary adjustments has enhanced their mental health recovery journey. Some have experienced significant relief from conditions like anxiety and stress, suggesting that a multifaceted approach—including proper nutrition and supplementation—can potentially yield better outcomes in managing depressive symptoms. The anecdotal feedback suggests that a well-balanced combination of supplements could be beneficial in supporting mental health Read Review.
Based on user reviews, many individuals found that appropriate dosages of Vitamin B12 significantly improved their depressive symptoms. Users reported an uplifting effect on their mood after taking B12 supplements, with specific mentions of improvements observable within just a couple of weeks of use. One user noted that their postpartum depression vanished with the help of B12, while others experienced increased energy and a notable reduction in apathy and anxiety levels Read ReviewRead ReviewRead Review.
Moreover, some reviews highlight the critical importance of maintaining adequate B12 levels, recommending a range of 500-800 pg/ml to mitigate the risk of depression and cognitive decline Read Review. It appears that consistent use of B12 supplements, especially those with well-balanced ingredients and higher dosages, can contribute to notable mental health improvements and overall cognitive functionality Read Review.
9
Mood improved greatly
11 people found this helpful
Very effective! I can't say much about strengthening hair and nails, but it certainly has helped my nervous system! I've been taking them for two weeks, and during this time my apathy vanished. I now wake up in a good mood, and my postpartum depression is gone! I recommend it to anyone needing to heal their nerves.
10
Energising effects
1 people found this helpful
Verified purchase from Solgar! It works! My brain feels alert, I have more energy, and my depression has lifted! The taste is also pleasant.
10
Depression alleviated
23 people found this helpful
A beautiful product! To be brief, my depression has passed, and I have experienced less hair loss.
9
Recommended for anxiety
1 people found this helpful
Excellent quality product, 100% recommended for anxiety, stress, memory loss, and depression. It contains perfect ingredients and quantity for two months. I suggest all those with these issues take this product; please share with others so they can benefit as well.
6
Affordable mood support
1 people found this helpful
I was diagnosed with medium depressive disorder due to a lack of intrinsic factor in my stomach causing depression. My naturopath prescribed mecobalamin, which is expensive. I found methylcobalamin active coenzyme for half the price, and it has had the same uplifting effect on my mood.
7.5
Essential for depression
6 people found this helpful
Delicious B12! Very tiny pills with great taste in a glass jar. Get tested for B12, especially if you show signs of depression or have a relative with dementia. B12 is crucial, as levels of 500-800 pg/ml lower the risk of dementia, Alzheimer's, and depression. Thank you for reading.
6
Zinc assists depression
Zinc has been beneficial in helping my depression.
9
Postpartum relief
Solgar power! I can't comment on strengthening my hair and nails, but it has certainly helped my nervous system! I’ve been taking them for two weeks, and during this time my apathy has disappeared. I wake up feeling good, and my postpartum depression is gone! I highly recommend it for anyone needing to improve their nerves.
7.5
Balanced ingredients
Very good quality! The ingredients are well balanced, and the size met my needs. The research-backed ingredients improve depression and elevate my mood, while also benefiting my attention. The taste was fine. I highly recommend it, especially with the max dosage, as I have experienced increased energy and a slight decrease in cholesterol and stress, along with improved brain activity.
8
Vitamin B affects depression risk
Low vitamin B but not folate is associated with incident depressive symptoms in community-dwelling older adults: a 4-year longitudinal study.
We explored the connection between vitamin B levels and depression in older adults over four years. Our study followed nearly 3,850 participants and found that those with low blood levels of vitamin B were significantly more likely to report depressive symptoms. Specifically, individuals with low vitamin B had a 51% higher chance of developing depression compared to those with adequate levels.
However, we did not find any significant link between folate levels and depression. These insights suggest that boosting vitamin B might be a simple, cost-effective way to help improve mental health in older adults.
We explored how vitamin B12 influences stress resilience and depression using sophisticated methods in a mouse model. Our findings linked vitamin B12 supplementation to changes in a gene called Ttr, which plays a role in managing stress.
Interestingly, we noticed that vitamin B12 reduced genetic markers associated with stress in specific areas of the brain. This important discovery encourages further research into how dietary changes might help improve mood disorders.
4
Vitamin B12's unclear role in depression
Can supplementing vitamin B12 improve mental health outcomes?: a literature review.
We reviewed several studies that looked into how vitamin B12 supplementation might help with depression and mental health issues. By systematically searching major databases, we identified a total of 287 articles and selected five that rigorously assessed the effects of B12 alone and alongside other B vitamins like folic acid and B6.
The results were mixed, showing that while some groups benefited from these vitamins, overall evidence was inconclusive. Notably, some studies indicated that combining vitamin B12 with folic acid and B6 could effectively prevent post-stroke depression. However, many trials examined specific populations, highlighting that B12 may be especially helpful for certain high-risk groups rather than a one-size-fits-all solution.
In conclusion, while the findings are promising for some, we need more research to determine how vitamin B12 supplementation could be beneficial for broader mental health improvement. Overall, vitamin B12’s role in treating depression is still a topic that requires further exploration.
7
Combination therapy for BMS
Efficacy of Danzhixiaoyao tablets combined with methylcobalamin tablets in the treatment of burning mouth syndrome: an open-label, randomized controlled trial.
We explored the effects of methylcobalamin, a form of vitamin B12, on patients suffering from burning mouth syndrome (BMS), alongside a traditional Chinese medicine, danzhixiaoyao pills. In our randomized controlled trial, we included 78 participants, mostly women, and divided them into a trial group receiving both the danzhixiaoyao pills and methylcobalamin, and a control group who only received the methylcobalamin.
After 6 weeks of treatment, we observed that those in the trial group experienced a notable decrease in measures of pain and depression, which were evaluated using established scales. However, we did not find any significant difference in anxiety levels between the two groups, suggesting that while vitamin B12 might play a role in addressing some symptoms of BMS, it doesn't have a strong impact on depression by itself in this context.
The trial showed a total effective rate of 73.68% in the test group compared to 52.94% in the control group, indicating that combining danzhixiaoyao pills with methylcobalamin could enhance treatment outcomes for BMS. Importantly, neither group reported any adverse effects, which highlights the safety of the treatments evaluated.
References
Chen J, Liu J, Zhang P, Zhang S. [Effects of Vitamin B on Behaviors, Brain Monoamine Neurotransmitters, and Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor in Depressive Rats]. Sichuan Da Xue Xue Bao Yi Xue Ban. 2025;56:206. doi:10.12182/20250160608
Stein G, Aly JS, Manzolillo A, Lange L, Riege K, et al. Transthyretin Orchestrates Vitamin B12-Induced Stress Resilience. Biol Psychiatry. 2025;97:54. doi:10.1016/j.biopsych.2024.07.009
Lagzi N, Bateni A, Goli R, Talebiazar N. The effect of multivitamins on anxiety and depression in patients undergoing methadone maintenance treatment: A double-blind randomized controlled trial. Int J Psychiatry Med. 2023;58:576. doi:10.1177/00912174231179320
Laird EJ, O'Halloran AM, Molloy AM, Healy M, Hernandez B, et al. Low vitamin B but not folate is associated with incident depressive symptoms in community-dwelling older adults: a 4-year longitudinal study. Br J Nutr. 2023;130:268. doi:10.1017/S0007114521004748
Ferriani LO, Silva DA, Molina MDCB, Mill JG, Brunoni AR, et al. Associations of depression and intake of antioxidants and vitamin B complex: Results of the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Adult Health (ELSA-Brasil). J Affect Disord. 2022;297:259. doi:10.1016/j.jad.2021.10.027
Wu Y, Li S, Wang W, Zhang D. Associations of dietary B vitamins intakes with depression in adults. Int J Vitam Nutr Res. 2023;93:142. doi:10.1024/0300-9831/a000720
Wu Y, Zhang L, Li S, Zhang D. Associations of dietary vitamin B1, vitamin B2, vitamin B6, and vitamin B12 with the risk of depression: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Nutr Rev. 2022;80:351. doi:10.1093/nutrit/nuab014
Dhiman P, Pillai RR, Wilson AB, Premkumar N, Bharadwaj B, et al. Cross-sectional association between vitamin B12 status and probable postpartum depression in Indian women. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth. 2021;21:146. doi:10.1186/s12884-021-03622-x
Bou Khalil R, Atallah E, Dirani E, Kallab M, Kassab A, et al. Can atypical dysgeusia in depression be related to a deafferentation syndrome?. Med Hypotheses. 2020;144:110047. doi:10.1016/j.mehy.2020.110047
Trautmann C, Bock A, Urbach A, Hübner CA, Engmann O. Acute vitamin B12 supplementation evokes antidepressant response and alters Ntrk-2. Neuropharmacology. 2020;171:108112. doi:10.1016/j.neuropharm.2020.108112
Esnafoglu E, Ozturan DD. The relationship of severity of depression with homocysteine, folate, vitamin B12, and vitamin D levels in children and adolescents. Child Adolesc Ment Health. 2020;25:249. doi:10.1111/camh.12387
Lv P, Xiang F, Zhang S, Lei D, Zhou C, et al. Valeriana jatamansi jones improves depressive behavior in CUMS mice by modulating vitamin B12-related ileal homeostasis. J Ethnopharmacol. 2025;342:119392. doi:10.1016/j.jep.2025.119392
Alzahrani H. Assessment of Vitamin B12 Efficacy on Cognitive Memory Function and Depressive Symptoms: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Cureus. 2024;16:e73350. doi:10.7759/cureus.73350
Zhang J, Liao Q, Chen H, Liu F, Sun D, et al. Association of Vitamin B12 and Polymorphism of with Early-Onset Post-Stroke Depression. Neuropsychiatr Dis Treat. 2024;20:2289. doi:10.2147/NDT.S480417
Hui J, Zhang N, Kang M, Gou Y, Liu C, et al. Micronutrient-Associated Single Nucleotide Polymorphism and Mental Health: A Mendelian Randomization Study. Nutrients. 2024;16. doi:10.3390/nu16132042
Harikaran S, Basu S, Mukherjee MP, Kar R, Nair S, et al. Vitamin B12 and homocysteine in patients with major depressive disorder. J Family Med Prim Care. 2024;13:2049. doi:10.4103/jfmpc.jfmpc_1460_23
Gao Y, Yang J, Sun H, Zhou H. Efficacy of Danzhixiaoyao tablets combined with methylcobalamin tablets in the treatment of burning mouth syndrome: an open-label, randomized controlled trial. BMC Oral Health. 2024;24:603. doi:10.1186/s12903-024-04318-2
Cruz-Rodríguez J, Canals-Sans J, Hernández-Martínez C, Arija V. Association between of vitamin B12 status during pregnancy and probable postpartum depression: the ECLIPSES study. J Reprod Infant Psychol. 2024. doi:10.1080/02646838.2024.2324043
Reis da Silva T. Can supplementing vitamin B12 improve mental health outcomes?: a literature review. Br J Community Nurs. 2024;29:137. doi:10.12968/bjcn.2024.29.3.137
Dułak NA, Rytlewska M, Jaskólska M, Chmielewski M. A new perspective on vitamin B12 deficiency in rheumatology: a case-based review. Rheumatol Int. 2024;44:737. doi:10.1007/s00296-024-05539-y
Tan Y, Zhou L, Gu K, Xie C, Wang Y, et al. Correlation between Vitamin B12 and Mental Health in Children and Adolescents: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Clin Psychopharmacol Neurosci. 2023;21:617. doi:10.9758/cpn.22.1040