Deficiency Of This Vitamin May Lead To Mood Swings. What To Include In Diet

It is more than often that you face mood swings and snap at your friends or family at the drop of a hat. If you are feeling irritable and moody for no explainable reason, know that you are not alone. Many individuals face this problem and in some cases, it is because of irregular production of certain brain chemicals. Vitamin B-12 plays an important role in the production of brain chemicals that affect our mood and other brain functions. Vitamin B-12, also known as cobalamin, plays an important role in red blood cells, cell metabolism, nerve function and DNA production.

Common symptoms of Vitamin B-12 deficiency include strange sensations, numbness or tingling in hands, feet, or legs, difficulty walking (stumbling, balance problems), anaemia, impaired thinking (cognitive deficits), memory loss, weakness, or fatigue. Vitamin B-12 and other B vitamins are crucial for producing brain chemicals that influence our mood and various brain functions. Medical professionals indicate that deficiencies in B-12, B-6 and folate are strongly linked to depression. Such deficiencies can result from a poor diet or issues with vitamin absorption from food. Therefore, maintaining sufficient levels of B-12 is vital for mood regulation and overall health. Chicken, meat, fish and dairy products are rich sources of Vitamin B-12, which is also available in tablet, injection, or nasal spray forms.

Individuals who follow a vegetarian or vegan diet may lack sufficient Vitamin B-12. Elderly individuals and those with digestive issues are also susceptible to B-12 deficiency. This vitamin is crucial for producing key brain chemicals like serotonin, which helps regulate mood. Low levels of B-12 can disrupt these chemicals, causing mood swings, irritation and depression. Both men and women can experience mood swings as a result of Vitamin B-12 deficiency.

Although studies have linked Vitamin B12 deficiency to depression, it is important to note that there are many reasons why a person may experience mood swings. You should consult a doctor to find out if there are other reasons.