Aa
Aa
A
A
A
Close
Avatar universal

anxiety depression and vitamin b

i've read on the internet that deficiency of vitamin B1 B3 B6 and B12 might make worse the feeling of anxiety and stress.  does anyone know if these vitamins will help with this feelings of anxiety and stress?
2 Responses
Sort by: Helpful Oldest Newest
Avatar universal
I wouldn't use dairy to try to get any nutrients.  Humans are the only animal to eat dairy after weaning, and there are only a few ethnic groups (from Scandanavia and India) that have the enzyme necessary to digest dairy.  The only dairy I would eat would be cultured, such as yogurt and kefir, but essentially, all dairy gives you is inflammation.  B12 is essential for energy and emotional well-being, but it's only found in animal products and some algae (spirulina).  For normal purposes, because it stores in fatty tissue, most people only need a little B12, and most people lacking it are vegetarians.  But if you have an anxiety problem, supplementing it is a good idea.  B6 is part of the body's process of manufacturing neurotransmitters, especially serotonin, and is an essential cofactor in many of the body's processes of manufacturing from amino acids those elements most pertinent to anxiety.  But you don't want to overdose on it, since too much B6 can cause neuropathy.  You also want to maintain a healthy balance of B6, B12, and folic acid, so as to properly regulate the body's production of homocysteine.  So the best way to supplement to get all of these in their proper ratios for emotional support is to take what's called a  Stress B vitamin.  If you just wanted the minimal amount necessary for life, a balanced diet of vegetables and fish would accomplish that, but if you're trying to attack anxiety, I assume you want more than you can get by eating a normal amount of food.  You can do that by juicing or by supplementing.  As for fresh vs. frozen vegetables, I agree but for different reasons.  Actually, frozen vegetables are higher in nutrients than "fresh" vegetables, because they are generally frozen on the farm or quickly after picking, whereas unless you're growing your own food, "fresh" food is usually at least a week old by the time you get it to your table.  But fresh food also contains energy, and that's lost by freezing.  I also only consume organically grown vegetables for the same reason, and to avoid the hormonal effects of petroleum based fertilizer.  
Helpful - 0
1042487 tn?1275279899
Hello there,

Yes a deficiency in vitamins B complex can lead to all sort of symptoms. Vitamin B1 (thiamine) can lead to emotional disturbances (maybe anxiety is one of them).

Vitamin B is responsible for supplying energy to the body during the exchange of glucose from carbohydrates. It also helps us to metabolize the proteins and fats. Vitamin B also maintains the well-being of our nervous systems. Also some studies have shown that vitamin B can assist with memory and overall brain power.

A deficiency in vitamin B3 (niacine) can lead to a bunch of symptoms too insomnia, weakness, mental confusion are some of them.

Vitamin B6 (piridoxine) is the one we will be interested in since you talk about anxiety and stress. Deficiency may lead to anemia, depression, high blood pressure and some other effects we are not interested for now. High blood pressure and depression are almost cross connected with anxiety. Depression can lead to anxiety, anxiety can lead to depression and anxiety can lead to high blood pressure.

Vitamin B12 (cobalamine) can also have harmful effects on you like memory loss and some cognitive effects. Mania and psychosis may result. But they are most likely to happen in elderly people.

The best sources of vitamin B are fresh dairy products and meats. The word fresh is key, as the nutritional value of foods can decline when they are frozen, overcooked, or combined with different additives. Dark-green leafy vegetables such as spinach, arugula, kale, collard greens, chicory, dandelion greens and Swiss chard, are a great source of folic acid. By steaming these vegetables as opposed to frying or simmering, you reap the greatest benefits because their vitamin content remains intact.

You can also look for vitamin B complex pills to your local food supplements supplier.

A nutritionist or dietician may be helpful in creating a meal plan that allows you to reap the maximum nutritional benefits of your food.

Best regards,
M4



Helpful - 0
Have an Answer?

You are reading content posted in the Anxiety Community

Top Anxiety Answerers
Avatar universal
Arlington, VA
370181 tn?1595629445
Arlington, WA
Learn About Top Answerers
Didn't find the answer you were looking for?
Ask a question
Popular Resources
Find out what can trigger a panic attack – and what to do if you have one.
A guide to 10 common phobias.
Take control of tension today.
These simple pick-me-ups squash stress.
Don’t let the winter chill send your smile into deep hibernation. Try these 10 mood-boosting tips to get your happy back
Want to wake up rested and refreshed?