Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Vitamin B9, commonly known as folate or folic acid (when used in supplements), has some scientific support for its use in the management of depression, though it is not a primary treatment. Multiple studies have observed that individuals with depression often have lower blood levels of folate compared to the general population. Folate plays a crucial role in the synthesis of neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, which are implicated in mood regulation.

Several randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses have examined the impact of folic acid supplementation as an adjunct to standard antidepressant therapy. These studies suggest that folate supplementation (especially in individuals with low baseline folate levels or specific genetic polymorphisms affecting folate metabolism) may enhance the response to antidepressants and contribute to symptom improvement. However, the effect size is generally modest, and not all studies have found a significant benefit. Furthermore, the evidence is stronger for the use of methylfolate (an active form of folate) rather than folic acid itself.

Guidelines from psychiatric associations acknowledge the potential utility of folate supplementation in certain cases, particularly when deficiency is present, but do not recommend it as a standalone treatment. Overall, scientific evidence supports a possible adjunctive role for Vitamin B9 in depression, particularly where deficiency is documented.

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