Dr. Tasreen Albhai N.D.
Naturopathic Medical Director
Seasonal changes can be exciting, such as hayrides in the fall or ice skating in the winter. However, darkened skies and temperature drops can also contribute to depression. Seasonal Affected Disorder (SAD) is a very common mood disorder characterized by depression that sets in at the same time each year. With SAD, you may experience symptoms like fatigue, depression, and social withdrawal. It can also cause difficulty with eating, thinking, memory, and sleeping.
While researchers don’t know the exact cause of depression, there are several factors thought to contribute to its development. Brain chemistry, genetics, and stressful life events may contribute to depression. Certain medical conditions and medications can also have depression as a side effect.
Nutrient levels may play a role in the development of depression. Some nutrient deficiencies that may contribute to depression include:
Low Vitamin D
Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that helps the body absorb and retain phosphorus and calcium. This essential vitamin is critical for bone building, facilitating natural immune function, and supporting weight loss. Vitamin D is also thought to help regulate mood and reduce depression.
According to Issues in Mental Health Nursing Journal, exposure to sunlight accounts for more than 90 percent of the vitamin D requirement for most people. Although many people associate low vitamin D with seasonal depression and the onset of winter, it can actually develop any time of year.
Low Iron
Iron is an essential mineral needed by the body for proper growth and development. The body uses iron to create hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells responsible for carrying oxygen from the lungs to other parts of the body. The body also requires iron to make certain hormones.
A Journal of Research in Health Sciences (JRHS) publication found an association between anemia and depression. In addition, individuals with depressive symptoms are more likely to have a higher prevalence of amenia than individuals without depression. People with anemia may develop depression as a result of impaired monoamine synthesis, low oxygen levels in body tissues, or a lack of physical activity.
Low B12
Vitamin B12 plays a key role in producing brain chemicals that impact mood and other important brain functions. A comparative study published in BMC Psychiatry Journal found a positive association between vitamin B12 levels and the probability of recovery from major depression.
Low levels of B12 may result from a diet low in foods that contain vit B12 or the inability to absorb the vitamins that you consume. Sometimes, a B12 deficiency will occur for unknown reasons. Vitamin B12 is known as an energy vitamin and is essential to keep your immune system healthy and your brain functioning well. However, it can sometimes be difficult to identify a B12 deficiency as the symptoms are similar to those of depression.
Low Thyroid
Hypothyroidism, also known as underactive or low thyroid, occurs when the thyroid gland does not make adequate thyroid hormones to meet the body’s needs. In its early stages, hypothyroidism does not usually cause noticeable symptoms. However, over time, it can lead to heart problems, high cholesterol, and other issues if not treated.
According to a survey published in the Indian Journal of Endocrinology and Metabolism, the connection between thyroid function and depression is well known, with both conditions sharing similar symptoms, making diagnosis difficult. A cross-sectional study found the most common depressive symptom in males to be depressed mood (73.33 percent) and in females, gastrointestinal somatic symptoms (68.54 percent).
Call Us Today
If you are experiencing depression, nutrient deficiencies may be contributing to your condition. The naturopathic physicians at Vitalia Health Care offer testing for vitamins, minerals, and hormones may be associated with your mood and overall health. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
Dr. Tasreen Albhai N.D.
