If you’ve decided to read this article, you are probably one of the many people who don’t feel quite well. You’re likely familiar with the feeling of having no strength for anything, that life brings you no joy, and you have no desire for anything at all. You might be having trouble sleeping, feel irritable, and experience sudden mood swings. Maybe you find it difficult to concentrate, often blame yourself, and struggle with making decisions. If you recognize yourself in these symptoms, it is very likely that you are suffering from depression.
Unfortunately, this illness is one of the most widespread in our time. People of all ages, with various professions, levels of education, and social status suffer from it. Depression affects women significantly more often than men. Depressive states can last from a few weeks to several years, and in the most severe cases, they can even lead to suicide. The possible causes are many – the loss of a loved one, a sudden change in life, serious health problems, stress, or genetic predisposition.
Sometimes, however, the illness is triggered by purely physical factors.
It has been proven that a lack of vitamin B12 in the body can lead to depressive states.
What is Vitamin B12?
Unlike most vitamins, B12 is not naturally contained in food. It is produced by microorganisms – bacteria, yeasts, and molds. In the human body, it is synthesized in the intestines.
This vitamin helps in the formation of red blood cells, supports the body in recovery after infections or major surgeries, aids in the absorption of amino acids, and is especially important for the proper functioning of the nervous system.
You can receive more nutrition tips at the free lecture by the Art of Living Foundation – “Ayurveda: The Path to Health and Balance.”
Where can I get vitamin B12?
It is commonly believed that the highest amount of vitamin B12 is found in meat, particularly red meat, liver, organ meats, and seafood.
Among plants, spirulina and some types of algae are considered to be rich in this vitamin. There are no other natural sources.
However, this is not the full truth. Since vitamin B12 is synthesized in the intestines, it is highly dependent on the state of the gut flora. In other words, if we mostly eat animal-based foods, consume only thermally processed food, and eat products rich in additives such as preservatives, colorings, and other artificial substances, we significantly hinder the bacteria in our gut that are responsible for synthesizing this vitamin.
What can I do?
A much more reasonable approach is to eat clean food, preferably raw, including mostly fruits, vegetables, nuts, and sprouts.
It is also important to consume enough probiotic and prebiotic foods. Among the first is yogurt, and among the second are garlic, onions, and legumes.
If you still want to support your body in coping with depression, you can also take dietary supplements.
However, keep in mind that not all of them are easily absorbed by the body. If you decide to take B12 tablets, combine them with folic acid, which helps with their absorption.
And don’t forget to take care of your spirit – smile more, try something new, or trust the wisdom of yoga, which has proven itself as an effective method for fighting depression. You can join our courses, where we will give you many tools to deal with stress and help you feel happier.
