S-adenosyl-L-methionine (SAMe) is a supplement naturally formed in the body by an enzymatic reaction. SAMe has been proposed as a treatment major depression and as an agent for improving mood and emotional well-being. SAMe works closely with folic acid and vitamin B-12. (American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, Vol. 76, No. 5, 1158S-1161S, November 2002)
Combined vitamin D and calcium supplementation produced significant elevations in mood. (Journal of Orthomolecular Medicine 1994;9:199–204.)
Studies suggest that vitamin B9 (folate) may be associated with depression more than any other nutrient. Between 15% and 38% of people with depression have low folate levels in their bodies and those with very low levels tend to be the most depressed .
Many healthcare providers recommend a multivitamin that contains folate. If the multivitamin alone is not enough to improve folate function, the provider may suggest adding vitamins B6 and B12 to improve feelings of depression.
The vitamin B12 increases the probability of recovery from major depression and is though to do its best when taken together with other B-vitamins.
The B-complex include: biotin, choline, folic acid, inositol, PABA (para-aminobenzoic acid), and the six “numbered” B vitamins–vitamin B-1 (thiamin), B-2 (riboflavin), B-3 (niacin), B-5 (pantothenic acid), B-6 (pyridoxine), and B-12 (cobalamin). Combination products can simplify the process of taking individual B vitamins for a range of ailments including depression and stress.
