10 Best Vitamins for Seasonal Depression 2022
Seasonal depression, also called seasonal affective disorder (SAD), is a type of depression. An estimated 10 million Americans suffer from SAD, and women are four times more likely to get this disorder than men.
Each person's SAD is unique in both nature and intensity. Some people just find the disease somewhat bothersome, while for others it can be severe and significantly affect their daily lives.
Some signs that you may be depressed:
- a recurring depressed mood
- low self-esteem
- tearfulness
- feeling stressed or anxious
- a loss of enjoyment or interest in routine tasks
- irritability
- thoughts of despair or worthlessness
- a decreased sex drive
- becoming less sociable
A small percentage of people will go through these symptoms in phases that are separated by "manic" periods in between where they feel upbeat, energized, and much more sociable.
- Convenient Softgels
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Best Magnesium Supplement for Anxiety
– High absorption magnesium glycinate:
High Absorption Magnesium uses a patented, organic, chelated delivery form of magnesium to optimize bioavailability and GI tolerance. It is not buffered and is more absorbable than magnesium oxide.
– Better absorbability:
Magnesium Glycinate – 2.3x greater than magnesium carbonate, 3.6x greater than magnesium sulfate, 6.0x greater than magnesium oxide, Chelated magnesium is absorbed faster and at a higher rate than ionic salts. Helps promote high magnesium retention in the body. Better tolerated, minimizes laxative effect — even at therapeutic doses. TRAACS (The Real Amino Acid Chelate System), not a synthetic chelate. Water soluble.
– Magnesium health benefits:
An essential dietary mineral, magnesium plays many important roles in the body.
– Not all “Amino acid chelates” are true chelates :
High Absorption Magnesium is made with Albion minerals TRAACS, 100% not buffered. Albion unique chelated mineral, scientific process turns elemental minerals form into an absorbed nutrient that’s gentle on your stomach with no laxative effects.
This High Absorption Magnesium Glycinate Lysinate supplement is also available as a powder :
Doctor’s Best High Absorption Magnesium Powder > Buy on Amazon
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Nutricost Magnesium Glycinate contains 420 milligrams of magnesium (from magnesium glycinate) in every serving. 240 capsules for 120 Servings per bottle. Nutricost, located and headquartered in the USA, only uses the best ingredients for maximum quality and to help you feel your best!
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– Extra High-Potency
2720 MG of Fish Oil , 1250 MG EPA and 488 MG DHA per serving.
– Promotes Heart Health
Omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to help promote heart and joint health, may also help support a positive mood, healthy brain function, and eye health.*
– Safe & Effective
Non-GMO, Gluten-Free, Soy-Free and Heavy Metal tested. Perfect for people of all ages.
– Highest Quality Formula
We use only the best ingredients available. Manufactured in a FDA Registered cGMP Facility. Laboratory tested.
Ratings
4.6 out of 5 – more than 1,050 global ratings
Bronson Omega 3 Fish Oil Supplement Reviews
I love that this is triple potency. My doctor recommends at least 3200 IU of EPA and DHA per day and four of these get me that with no fuss. I like that it is heavy metal tested as well. The capsules are a bit big but manageable. I have been using it as my Omega 3 supplement for the past 3 years.
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Minami Platinum Omega-3 Fish Oil is an ultra-concentrated omega-3 supplement made from the purest fish oil utilizing dual supercritical CO2 extraction technology that delivers an unprecedented 1,100mg of omega-3s in the natural triglyceride form, in just one softgel daily. It has a clean orange flavor with no fishy aftertaste, and with 1,000IU of added vitamin D, this unique omega-3 supplement is designed to support brain, mood, immune and cardiovascular health.†
– concentrated omega-3 fish oil plus vitamin d3
– 1,100mg total of omega-3 nutrition in just one softgel daily
– 1,000iu vitamin d3, 250% daily value
– clean, orange flavor and no fishy aftertaste
Ratings
4.7 out of 5 – more than 1,850 global ratings
Garden of Life Omega 3 Fish Oil Supplement with Vitamin D Reviews
The hypothesis behind selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI) antidepressants, which are frequently given, is that these disorders can be treated by increasing the amount of serotonin in the body. However, never take this supplement without your doctor's permission.
I use 5-HTP throughout the winter months in order to help combat Seasonal Affective Disorder, or seasonal depression. I take the product right before bed with some vitamin B6 to help it absorb better. I sleep soundly, and wake up feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. It definitely makes getting through the winter easier. It helps with my moods and sleep schedule. Would highly recommend to anyone who suffers from seasonal depression as well.
This is very well priced supplement. It absolutely has helped with my insomnia, depression and appetite. It boosts your natural serotonin levels which in turn aid in all the items mentioned. It has helped me get through my Bipolar depression and Seasonal Affect Disorder during the winter season.
Even though it has helped me tremendously doesn't mean it replaces any meds prescribed by a physician...just check with your Doctor and/or pharmacist to check for any contraindications to your current medicine and treatment.
Ratings
4.5 out of 5 - more than 3,700 global ratings
I love the St. Johns Wort. This product is one of the best and most potent working I have used. I suffer seasonal depression. The medications I used to take caused side effects. With this product I get all the positives, and none of the negatives of the actual medication. I do not take more than the recommended amount. Thank you very much!
Seasonal Affective Disorder Symptoms
Seasonal affective disorder is, by definition, a form of major depression. The primary distinction is that, unlike depressive episodes, which can happen at any time of the year, SAD follows a seasonal pattern. Usually beginning in the fall or winter and get better in the spring.Each person's SAD is unique in both nature and intensity. Some people just find the disease somewhat bothersome, while for others it can be severe and significantly affect their daily lives.
Some signs that you may be depressed:
- a recurring depressed mood
- low self-esteem
- tearfulness
- feeling stressed or anxious
- a loss of enjoyment or interest in routine tasks
- irritability
- thoughts of despair or worthlessness
- a decreased sex drive
- becoming less sociable
A small percentage of people will go through these symptoms in phases that are separated by "manic" periods in between where they feel upbeat, energized, and much more sociable.
What Vitamins Help Seasonal Depression / SAD
A. Vitamin D
B. Magnesium
C. Omega 3 Fatty Acids
D. 5-HTP (5-hydroxytryptophan)
E. St. John’s Wort
A. Vitamin D
Vitamin D deficiency caused by low dietary intake of the vitamin or a lack of exposure to sunshine, have been found in people with SAD. Moreover, a few research also revealed a link between depression and low vitamin D levels. However, it’s unclear whether vitamin D supplementation can lessen SAD symptoms.1. Jarrow Formulas Vitamin D3 2500 IU
- Provides Cholecalciferol
Vitamin D3 provides cholecalciferol, which is the form produced by the (human) skin in response to UVB exposure (sunlight), and may also improve vitamin D status better than equivalent amounts of ergocalciferol
- Immune and Bone Support
Vitamin D3 is converted to calcitriol in the body, which enhances dietary calcium and phosphorous absorption, supports production of osteocalcin (an important structural protein in bone), and supports a healthy immune response
- Convenient Softgels
Each softgel delivers 1000 IU of vitamin D; Take 1 softgel per day, or every other day, with a fat-containing meal, or as directed by your qualified healthcare professional
- Superior Nutrition and Formulation
The goal of Jarrow Formulas is to promote optimal health with high-quality, effective, affordable, and superior formulation of dietary supplements; Our customers can be assured of purity, value, and potency
Ratings
4.8 out of 5 - more than 1,03o global ratings
I been taking these for a week only and I’ve had so much energy. I’ve been suffering from anxiety attacks and fatigue and when I started taking this I noticed my energy level raised. I didn’t pay much attention until today that I caught myself dancing and laughing with my son which something I haven’t had the energy to do in a while. I don’t know if I was low on vitamin d but when I was younger I always was low on it so I’m guessing this really helped me and it’s exactly what I needed. Oh also the pills are very small and easy to swallow.
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Case histories are presented showing rapid recovery (less than 7 days) from major depression using 125-300 mg of magnesium (as glycinate and taurinate) with each meal and at bedtime. Magnesium was found usually effective for treatment of depression in general use. (Source)
2. Plant-D3 Organic Vitamin D3 5000 IU
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- Organic Vitamin D3
Derived from sun-grown algae delivered in the optimal Cholecalciferol form.
- 300% Higher Absorption Rate
Liquid sublingual D3 drops are clinically shown to have a 197% to 264% higher absorption rate than capsules. The sublingual drops directly absorb into the bloodstream and don't need processing by the liver.
- Max Strength 5000 IU Yet Easy to Adjust Doses
6 single drops of our liquid vitamin D delivers 5000 IU. Doses are also easy to adjust if you desire a smaller or larger amount. The adjustable doses make it easy to administer to children of any age.
- Vegan D3 USDA Organic Certified, 3rd Party Tested
Plant-D3 is organically certified by the USDA and exceeds all vegan standards. It is GMO-free, soy-free, gluten-free, preservative-free, additive-free. It is produced in a cGMP & organic certified facility in the USA and is 3rd party tested for over 100+ toxins or microbials.
Derived from sun-grown algae delivered in the optimal Cholecalciferol form.
- 300% Higher Absorption Rate
Liquid sublingual D3 drops are clinically shown to have a 197% to 264% higher absorption rate than capsules. The sublingual drops directly absorb into the bloodstream and don't need processing by the liver.
- Max Strength 5000 IU Yet Easy to Adjust Doses
6 single drops of our liquid vitamin D delivers 5000 IU. Doses are also easy to adjust if you desire a smaller or larger amount. The adjustable doses make it easy to administer to children of any age.
- Vegan D3 USDA Organic Certified, 3rd Party Tested
Plant-D3 is organically certified by the USDA and exceeds all vegan standards. It is GMO-free, soy-free, gluten-free, preservative-free, additive-free. It is produced in a cGMP & organic certified facility in the USA and is 3rd party tested for over 100+ toxins or microbials.
B. Magnesium
Magnesium, especially glycinate may help people with sleeping problems, anxiety and depression.Case histories are presented showing rapid recovery (less than 7 days) from major depression using 125-300 mg of magnesium (as glycinate and taurinate) with each meal and at bedtime. Magnesium was found usually effective for treatment of depression in general use. (Source)
3. Doctor's Best High Absorption Magnesium Glycinate Lysinate
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Best Magnesium Supplement for Anxiety
– High absorption magnesium glycinate:
High Absorption Magnesium uses a patented, organic, chelated delivery form of magnesium to optimize bioavailability and GI tolerance. It is not buffered and is more absorbable than magnesium oxide.
– Better absorbability:
Magnesium Glycinate – 2.3x greater than magnesium carbonate, 3.6x greater than magnesium sulfate, 6.0x greater than magnesium oxide, Chelated magnesium is absorbed faster and at a higher rate than ionic salts. Helps promote high magnesium retention in the body. Better tolerated, minimizes laxative effect — even at therapeutic doses. TRAACS (The Real Amino Acid Chelate System), not a synthetic chelate. Water soluble.
– Magnesium health benefits:
An essential dietary mineral, magnesium plays many important roles in the body.
– Not all “Amino acid chelates” are true chelates :
High Absorption Magnesium is made with Albion minerals TRAACS, 100% not buffered. Albion unique chelated mineral, scientific process turns elemental minerals form into an absorbed nutrient that’s gentle on your stomach with no laxative effects.
This High Absorption Magnesium Glycinate Lysinate supplement is also available as a powder :
Doctor’s Best High Absorption Magnesium Powder > Buy on Amazon
Ratings
4.6 out of 5 – more than 46,300 global ratings4. Nutricost Magnesium Glycinate 420mg
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Nutricost Magnesium Glycinate contains 420 milligrams of magnesium (from magnesium glycinate) in every serving. 240 capsules for 120 Servings per bottle. Nutricost, located and headquartered in the USA, only uses the best ingredients for maximum quality and to help you feel your best!
By keeping our supplement recipes simple and clean, you get the best experience possible with Nutricost. Our supplements are manufactured in a GMP-compliant and FDA-registered facility; and each batch of every product is tested by independent, ISO-accredited laboratories.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Ratings
4.7 out of 5 – more than 650 global ratingsI have been taking a regular Magnesium daily but it works a little too well with my digestive tract since magnesium acts as a diurectic. After doing some research on magnesium, I bought this one and like it so much better. It mentions that it helps with sleep but I wasn't sure how that would work but after a few weeks of taking one daily, I noticed that I am sleeping better. Maybe a coincidence but either way, I'll keep taking them
C. Omega 3 Fatty Acids
Omega 3s may be beneficial for treating depression in some ways. For instance: omega-3s can easily cross the membrane of brain cells and interact with molecules that influence mood. Additionally, they have anti-inflammatory properties that could lessen depression.5. Bronson Omega 3 Fish Oil Triple Strength 2720 mg
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– Extra High-Potency
2720 MG of Fish Oil , 1250 MG EPA and 488 MG DHA per serving.
– Promotes Heart Health
Omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to help promote heart and joint health, may also help support a positive mood, healthy brain function, and eye health.*
– Safe & Effective
Non-GMO, Gluten-Free, Soy-Free and Heavy Metal tested. Perfect for people of all ages.
– Highest Quality Formula
We use only the best ingredients available. Manufactured in a FDA Registered cGMP Facility. Laboratory tested.
Ratings
4.6 out of 5 – more than 1,050 global ratings
Bronson Omega 3 Fish Oil Supplement Reviews
I love that this is triple potency. My doctor recommends at least 3200 IU of EPA and DHA per day and four of these get me that with no fuss. I like that it is heavy metal tested as well. The capsules are a bit big but manageable. I have been using it as my Omega 3 supplement for the past 3 years.
6. Garden of Life Omega 3 Fish Oil Supplement with Vitamin D
BUY ON AMAZON
Minami Platinum Omega-3 Fish Oil is an ultra-concentrated omega-3 supplement made from the purest fish oil utilizing dual supercritical CO2 extraction technology that delivers an unprecedented 1,100mg of omega-3s in the natural triglyceride form, in just one softgel daily. It has a clean orange flavor with no fishy aftertaste, and with 1,000IU of added vitamin D, this unique omega-3 supplement is designed to support brain, mood, immune and cardiovascular health.†
– concentrated omega-3 fish oil plus vitamin d3
– 1,100mg total of omega-3 nutrition in just one softgel daily
– 1,000iu vitamin d3, 250% daily value
– clean, orange flavor and no fishy aftertaste
Ratings
4.7 out of 5 – more than 1,850 global ratings
Garden of Life Omega 3 Fish Oil Supplement with Vitamin D Reviews
Overall, in terms of physical attributes, these capsules are quite large but very easy to swallow since they have a smooth surface. Also they have a slight orange taste and leaves no after taste. There are also no fish burps. I like the ratio of EPA to DHA, which most experts agree is desirable. The bottle is protective of light which is important to preserve the capsule. The price of this product is higher than most, however in my opinion well worth it.
D. 5-HTP (5-hydroxytryptophan)
5-htp is a chemical that the body easily converts to serotonin, a neurotransmitter that is frequently found to be low in people with SAD and depression. Serotonin deficiency is frequently linked to sadness, stress, anxiety, and SAD.The hypothesis behind selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI) antidepressants, which are frequently given, is that these disorders can be treated by increasing the amount of serotonin in the body. However, never take this supplement without your doctor's permission.
7. Arazo Nutrition 5-HTP 200mg Plus Calcium for Mood, Sleep – Supports Calm and Relaxed Mood
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5 HTP 200mg plus Calcium 328mg. Extra high 99% purity; super potent at 99% purity, unlike other brands with low 80% purity or less; boosts benefits for immediate positive mood and sleep support. Made in a GMP certified facility in America and third party safety tested for purity
Benefits of 5-HTP Supplementation?
Ratings
4.4 out of 5 - more than 9,900 global ratings
5 HTP 200mg plus Calcium 328mg. Extra high 99% purity; super potent at 99% purity, unlike other brands with low 80% purity or less; boosts benefits for immediate positive mood and sleep support. Made in a GMP certified facility in America and third party safety tested for purity
Benefits of 5-HTP Supplementation?
✓ improve mood and positive outlook
✓ relieve anxiety and stress
✓ supports better sleep quality
✓ promotes relaxation of mind and body
✓ suitable for both men and women
4.4 out of 5 - more than 9,900 global ratings
8. Nutricost 5-HTP 100mg, 240 Vegetarian Capsules, Gluten Free and Non-GMO
Nutricost 5-Hydroxytryptophan (also known as 5-HTP) contains 100 MG of potent, high-quality 5-HTP in each capsule. These pills are non-GMO and gluten-free.
- high quality 5-HTP supplement
- made in a gmp compliant facility
- 100 mg per serving
- 240 capsules per bottle
- made in a gmp compliant facility
- 100 mg per serving
- 240 capsules per bottle
Nutricost only uses the best ingredients to ensure maximum quality. All Nutricost supplements are manufactured in a GMP compliant facility. With Nutricost you know you're getting the best.
- easy to take capsules
- non-gmo
- gluten-free
Ratings
4.5 out of 5 - more than 7,050 global ratingsEven though it has helped me tremendously doesn't mean it replaces any meds prescribed by a physician...just check with your Doctor and/or pharmacist to check for any contraindications to your current medicine and treatment.
E. St. John’s Wort
For ages, people have utilized the wild plant Hypericum perforatum, also known as St. John's wort, to treat mental health issues. But taking St. John's wort along with some antidepressants may cause your body to produce more serotonin than usual, which could be fatal.9. Healths Harmony St. John's Wort - 120 Capsules (Non-GMO)
- Turn to St. John’s Wort
For centuries people have turned to St. john’s wort (commonly misspelled wart) for all the benefits it can provide. Now we know it contains a natural active chemical called Hypericin – and Healths Harmony’s high-potency formula provides 900mcg of hypericin in every serving.
- Quality and Quantity
We keep servings simple with one capsule per serving and 120 capsules per bottle. There’s no nasty tincture to taste and no gritty pills, just potent extract standardized to 0.3% hypericin for optimal support.
- Manufactured to Immaculate Standards
We manufacture these non-gmo powder capsules in a GMP-certified facility right here in the USA using globally sourced ingredients. Our precision formulation means you can be sure that what’s listed on the bottle is what you actually get – every single time - nothing but pure St. john's wort and something to hold the capsule together.
4.5 out of 5 - more than 3,700 global ratings
10. Nature's Way Premium Herbal St. John’s Wort Herb 180 VCaps
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Source: Ask the Expert: Seasonal Depression
Avoid attempting to treat depression by yourself. If you don't receive efficient, qualified assistance, depression may become severe.
St. John’s Wort extract has been one of the most popular herbal products in Europe – and for good reason – it promotes a positive mood.† The extract used in this product is a highly-concentrated extract of St. John’s Wort (Hypericum perforatum) leaves and flowers.
- we source St. John's Wort from the regions where it grows best, like Chile and Europe.
- trusted quality, non-GMO project verified.
- bottle made with 97% post-consumer recycled materials. Please recycle.
- gluten-free and vegan. No salt, yeast-derived ingredients, wheat, soy, corn, dairy, or artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.
Ratings
4.6 out of 5 - more than 3,290 global ratings
I purchased these after having a bad case of seasonal depression. I honestly believe these have helped stabilize my mood. Such an amazing natural source, I would recommend trying these if you are in the same boat.
FAQ
a. How is Seasonal Depression Diagnosed?
Physical exam. Your doctor might do a physical examination and ask you probing questions about your health. Sometimes a physical health issue may be the underlying cause of depression.
Lab tests. For instance, to check that your thyroid is functioning properly, your doctor may perform a blood test called a complete blood count (CBC).
Psychological evaluation. Your doctor or mental health specialist will ask about your symptoms, thoughts, feelings, and behavior patterns to look for indications of depression. To assist in addressing issues, you can complete a questionnaire.
Ask the Expert: Seasonal Depression
b. Seasonal Depression / Seasonal Affective Disorder Treatment
A combination of medications, psychotherapy, and light treatment may be used to treat seasonal affective disorder. It is important for your doctor and mental health professional to determine if you have bipolar illness before providing light therapy or an antidepressant. Both therapies have the potential to cause a manic episode.
Bottom Line
It's common to experience depressive feelings occasionally. But if you consistently feel depressed and lack the will to engage in your favorite activities, speak with your doctor. This is particularly crucial if your appetite and sleep patterns have changed, or if you feel hopeless or considering suicide.Avoid attempting to treat depression by yourself. If you don't receive efficient, qualified assistance, depression may become severe.
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