Evidence supporting the use of: Vitamin D
For the body system: Serotonin

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Synopsis

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

Vitamin D has garnered interest for its potential role in supporting the serotonin system, especially in the context of mood regulation and mental health. Several scientific studies have investigated the relationship between vitamin D status and serotonin synthesis. Mechanistically, vitamin D is believed to regulate the expression of tryptophan hydroxylase 2 (TPH2), the enzyme responsible for synthesizing serotonin in the brain. A 2014 review by Patrick and Ames (FASEB J. 2014) discussed how vitamin D may increase brain serotonin by activating TPH2 gene transcription, which could influence mood and behavior. Epidemiological studies have demonstrated a correlation between low vitamin D levels and increased risk of depression and other mood disorders, conditions thought to be associated with altered serotonin metabolism. However, intervention trials supplementing vitamin D to improve mood or serotonin-related outcomes have yielded mixed results, with some showing modest benefits and others finding no significant effect. In summary, while there is moderate scientific evidence suggesting a plausible mechanism for vitamin D's involvement in serotonin synthesis and some epidemiological support, the clinical evidence remains inconclusive. Therefore, the use of vitamin D to support the serotonin system is based on a combination of mechanistic plausibility and limited human data, warranting a moderate evidence rating.

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