Twelve Antidepressant Nutrients

In 2018 the first nutritional guidelines to prevent depression were published.

Out of the 34 nutrients that are considered essential for humans, twelve were selected for their role in the prevention and treatment of depressive disorders.

The twelve nutrients are:

• Folate

• Iron

• Omega 3 long-chain fatty acids

• Magnesium

• Potassium

• Selenium

• Thiamine

• Vitamin A

• Vitamin B6

• Vitamin B12

• Vitamin C

• Zinc

These twelve nutrients are implicated in the pathophysiology of depression, and deficiencies in these nutrients can cause depressive symptoms.

Luckily, if we follow a well-balanced diet, full of fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, seeds, oily fish, and extra virgin olive oil, plus some dairy and lean meats, we are able to consume all of these important nutrients in our diets!

Reference
LaChance LR, Ramsey D. Antidepressant foods: An evidence-based nutrient profiling system for depression. World journal of psychiatry. 2018 Sep 20;8(3):97.