A few weeks ago a reader asked an important nutritional question to a medical columnist in this paper.

The question was as follows: 

By Dr. Nirala Jacobi, ND

“I wish you would address the value of vitamin B12 tablets, together

with folic acid, in keeping depression at bay” In essence, he said

that supplements were unnecessary.  I’d like your opinion, from

a naturopathic perspective.  K.T., Billings

In an ideal world our food supply would indeed cover all of our nutritional needs.  The fact is that mass production,

soil depletion, over processing of grains and vegetables, as well as the common use of the microwave oven has

 seriously affected the nutritional content of foods. Despite fortification, many vitamins and minerals are deficient

 in our diet.  Deficiencies of essential minerals such as magnesium and zinc are wide spread. Folic acid (folate)

is one of the most common nutritional deficiencies in the world.  Its benefits in a variety of physical and mental

ailments have been well established in many studies.  In the science journal “Nutrition Review” one scientist

 quotes “depression is the most common neuropsychiatric symptom of folate deficiency”. In fact, many studies

exist that show the benefit of both B12 and folic acid in depression.  This is not surprising as both B12 and folic

 acid affect serotonin metabolism in the brain.   I have had countless patients who would attest to the effectiveness

 of B12 and folate for depression and fatigue. Many vegetables, particularly green leafy vegetables are rich in folate.

The RDA for folic acid is 400mcg. An optimal daily intake of this nutrient is 4-5 times that amount.  The RDA for B12

 is 3mcg per day.  In a depleted individual at least 1000mcg per day is warranted.

Another reason why our food supply is not sufficient in supplying all the vitamins and minerals we require is because

our body’s demand of these nutrients is far greater than it ever was.  Our body requires B vitamins (including B12

 and folic acid) for very important detoxification processes.  Without specific nutrients this process slows down.

 Having nutrient deficiencies is like trying to drive your car without gasoline.  Only putting in the gas will drive the car! 

In our hectic world stress is probably the most common contributor to preventable diseases.  Stress can raise your

 blood pressure, deprive you of sleep, cause depression and anxiety, and is implicated in a host of other ailments

 such as heart disease, cancer, and digestive disorders.  Related to the reader’s question: chronic stress can lower

your output of stomach acid which in turn will inhibit a substance called intrinsic factor.  Without intrinsic factor you

cannot absorb B12 from your food. 

In closing I would like to emphasize that nutritional deficiencies in our society are a fact.  The vast majority of

Americans do not eat a well balanced diet; hence we can assume that the vast majority is depleted in at least

one or two nutrients.  It is my opinion that quality supplements can be extremely useful to many people.

Yellowstone Naturopathic Clinic
720 N. 30th St.
Billings, MT 59101
PHONE 406·259·5096/FAX 406·248·5655

ync@180com.net

Dispensary
406·254·9682

dispensary@yncnaturally.com