Omega 3, SAMe, Vitamin D supplements found to boost the effects of antidepressant medications
In recent review1 research evidence regarding supplement and depression, to research team at Melbourne University found taking some nutrient supplements together with antidepressants can enhance the medication’s effects.
The review research evidence of 40 clinical trial evidence found that Omega-3 fish oil, Vitamin D and Denosine Methionine (commonly known as SAMe) supplements increased the effects for antidepressant medication with clinical depression. In fact, Omega 3 fish oil supplements high these fatty acid EPA, in combination with antidepressants, had the strongest results. Omega 3 is good for general brain health and improving mood.
Other nutrients that critical for brain health are Vitamins B, C and minerals such as Zinc and especially Magnesium.
Overall, the review found more patients showed improvement in mood when prescribed Omega-3 fish oil, Methylfolate, Vitamin D and SAMe supplements in combination with antidepressant medication, compared those who took medication only. The evidence revealed mixed results for Zinc, Vitamin C and Tryptophan.
In particular, Omega-3 and SAMe, for instance, can alter mood-regulating neurotransmitter levels in brain similar way to certain antidepressant medications.
The review found no major safety concerns in combining many of nutrient supplements studied with medications, but is important to stress that supplements can differ in quality.
Depression needs an integrative approach
It is important for depression to integrative approach, that includes psychological support, supportive lifestyle factors, good wholefood diet, exercise and sufficient sleep.
As currently recruiting people for clinical trial in Melbourne and Brisbane in nutrients combination will enhance the effects of antidepressant medication even more.
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1 Reference: https://ajp.psychiatryonline.org/doi/abs/10.1176/appi.ajp.2016.15091228