Certain dietary supplements have shown promise as adjunctive therapies in managing depression. Here are a few supplements that have been identified through clinical studies:

1. Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids (PUFAs): PUFAs, specifically combinations of EPA (Eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (Docosahexaenoic acid), have been found effective in reducing depressive symptoms. The beneficial effects were noted with a daily intake of 0.7–2 g of EPA and 0.4–0.8 g of DHA over a period ranging from three weeks to four months¹.

2. Vitamin D: Supplementation with Vitamin D has also shown positive effects in managing depression. Effective doses included 2000 IU/day or 50,000 IU/week, administered over periods between 8 weeks and 24 months¹.

3. Probiotics: Probiotic supplements, particularly those containing microbes from the genera Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, have been effective in treating depression. A minimum dose of 108 CFU in various forms showed beneficial effects¹.

These supplements might offer supportive benefits for individuals dealing with depression, but it is essential to use them as part of a broader treatment plan, ideally under medical supervision.

Footnotes

1. Jihan Nurul Thurfah, "Dietary Supplementations and Depression," NCBI, 2022. ↩ ↩² ↩³