It is estimated that as many as 1 in 4 adults will suffer with a mental health issue at some point in their lives, although if recent findings are anything to go by, this number is believed to be much higher.
Even with all the breakthroughs we’ve had as of late regarding mental health, experts are worried that a large percentage of people suffering with poor mental health are suffering in silence for fear of being ridiculed or judged, and that is something which simply has to change.
It really is okay not to be okay, and asking for help and admitting you are struggling doesn’t make you weak, it actually makes you strong.
Recent events in the world have highlighted the importance of looking after our mental health, which is why we’re looking at the importance of supplementation in today’s article.
If you’re struggling with your mental health and wish to address this issue head on, here are 4 supplements to boost mental wellbeing.
Vitamin D
The first supplement we’re looking at today is one which has been grabbing many of the headlines lately for all of the right reasons.
Vitamin D is very much the supplement of 2021 and rightfully so. The sunshine vitamin, as it is known, not only promotes an increase in the absorption of calcium into the bones, it can also boost your immune system.
Studies have found a direct link between vitamin D deficiencies and depression. It has also been revealed that vitamin D supplementation may help to reduce mental health disorders such as anxiety, stress, and depression.
When exposed to rays from the sun, the body synthesizes vitamin D, but obviously in the winter or in bad weather, deficiencies can occur which is why vitamin D supplements are so highly recommended.
Omega-3 fatty acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are known as essential fatty acids, which means that we can’t produce them naturally, so we have to get them in from dietary sources instead.
Omega-3 fatty acids promote cardiovascular health, they regulate hormones, they help to fight inflammation and lubricate the joints, and they help to improve brain health and function.
These supplements contain eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) which has been found to have a positive effect on our mood.
5-HTP
5-HTP, or 5-Hydroxytryptophan is a chemical which the body naturally produces via the amino acid L-Tryptophan.
In the body, 5-HTP helps to naturally stimulate the production of endorphins such as serotonin, which not only promotes relaxation and feelings of well-being, it also serves as an effective treatment for depression and anxiety.
5-HTP not only helps to lift our mood, it also helps to regulate our sleep patterns and can help fight insomnia. A lack of sleep has been linked with many mental health disorders, so if any of the above are affecting you, adding 5-HTP to your supplement stack would be a very wise choice.
Vitamin B
B vitamins play key roles in the health and function of our metabolisms and our brains.
They play vital roles in the natural synthesis of chemicals which help to influence the brain in general, along with our moods and our sleep patterns and cycles. It should come as no wonder to learn then, that vitamin B deficiencies have been linked with poor mental health.
Vitamins B12 and B6 are particularly important, and as well as eating more foods rich in B vitamins such as oily fish, red meat, eggs, and fortified cereals, you should also consider supplementing with them to help boost your mental health.
