Evidence supporting the use of: Vitamin B12
For the health condition: Mood Swings

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Vitamin B12 is a crucial nutrient involved in neurological function and the production of neurotransmitters, both of which are closely linked to mood regulation. Deficiency in vitamin B12 is well documented to cause psychiatric and neurological symptoms, including mood swings, irritability, depression, and cognitive impairment. Several observational studies have found a correlation between low vitamin B12 levels and increased prevalence of mood disorders, such as depression and bipolar disorder. Supplementation with B12 can alleviate mood symptoms in individuals who are deficient, with some clinical trials reporting improvement in mood after correcting deficiency.

However, while the relationship between B12 deficiency and mood disturbances is established, robust evidence supporting the use of B12 supplements to treat mood swings in individuals with normal B12 status is lacking. Most intervention studies are limited to populations with clear deficiency, such as the elderly, vegetarians, or those with malabsorption issues. For individuals without deficiency, there is little scientific evidence that additional B12 supplementation can prevent or treat mood swings.

Therefore, vitamin B12 is scientifically validated as a supportive treatment for mood swings only in the context of deficiency. There is insufficient evidence to recommend it for mood swings in the general population with adequate B12 levels. Routine supplementation should be based on individual nutritional assessment and under medical supervision.

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