Synopsis

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

Vitamin B1, also known as thiamine, has been investigated for its potential role in supporting mental health, including depression. Thiamine is essential for brain function as it helps convert glucose into energy and is involved in neurotransmitter synthesis. Deficiency in thiamine can lead to neurological and psychiatric symptoms, including irritability, fatigue, and, in severe cases, Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome, which features profound cognitive and mood disturbances. Several observational studies have found that individuals with depression are more likely to have lower thiamine levels. Some small clinical trials and case reports suggest that supplementation with thiamine may improve mood in people with deficiency or suboptimal levels, particularly in elderly or malnourished populations. However, while there is a biological rationale and some limited clinical evidence for thiamine supplementation improving depressive symptoms when deficiency is present, robust randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in the general population with depression are lacking. The current scientific consensus is that thiamine supplementation may be beneficial in individuals with confirmed or suspected deficiency, but there is insufficient evidence to support its widespread use as a primary treatment for depression in otherwise healthy individuals. Overall, the use of Vitamin B1 for depression has some scientific basis, but the quality and quantity of evidence are limited, meriting a modest evidence rating.

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