The Link Between Anxiety, Depression, and Nutrition: Glens Falls Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing on 3 Vitamins That Can Help
Anxiety and depression are two of the most common mental disorders among older Americans.
Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) — a general state of anxiety, rather than worrying about specific issues like money or a medical issue — is reported in 7 percent of those over the age of 60, while depression affects about 3 percent of seniors.
It’s important to always bring up mental health concerns to your physician. Because while the medicine is available to treat these issues, something as simple as a vitamin or mineral deficiency could be to blame.
Glens Falls Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing is shining the spotlight on three vitamins that have been known to be linked with anxiety and depression.
- Vitamin B-1
Vitamin B-1, otherwise known as thiamine, is known as an “anti-stress” vitamin. The recommended amount for adults is around 1.4 milligrams per day, but a study in “Psychopharmacology” found that people taking 50 milligrams per day for two months showed increases in mood and composure.
2. Vitamin B-6
Vitamin B-6 helps the body produce serotonin and norepinephrine, which are two mood-regulating hormones. Irritability, depression, nervousness, and lack of concentration are byproducts of a Vitamin B-6 deficiency. Two milligrams is the recommended daily requirement, and B-6 can be found in many foods, including fish, poultry, dairy, legumes, and whole grains.
3. Vitamin D
Vitamin D can be absorbed from the sun, but if you live in an area that doesn’t get a lot of sunlight, or you spend most of your day indoors, you can easily be lacking in this critical nutrient. Studies have shown that people with anxiety and depression were vitamin D deficient. Vitamin D supplements are one of the most common on the market, plus the vitamin can be found in fatty fish, fish liver oils, and many dairy products.
Minerals like magnesium, calcium, iron, and zinc have also been known to help with symptoms of anxiety and depression. However, before you begin taking any supplements, be sure to consult your doctor. He or she will be able to give your proper amounts to take.
To learn more about Glens Falls Center and all of the services they offer, visit https://centershealthcare.com/glens_falls_center/.
