Low Folic Acid Intake Linked with Depression in Men

For men, getting adequate folic acid may improve mood! Folic acid has already been shown in studies to improve overall cognitive function, help prevent Alzheimer's and protect against heart disease and stroke.

Japanese researchers evaluated the diets and depressive symptoms of over 500 men and women to determine whether intake of particular nutrients depression. They found that the male participants who consumed higher levels of folic acid experienced fewer symptoms. Men who consumed at least 235 mcg for every 100 calories (which correlates to 500-700 mg of folic acid as part of the typical daily caloric intake of most men) were 50% less likely to experience depressive symptoms than men with the lowest average intake of 119 mcg per 100 calories (200-400 mg daily). (Murakami K., et al. Nutrition. Published online ahead of print 3 December 2007, doi: 10.1016/j.nut.2007.10.013.)

This study contributes to a growing body of research linking folic acid intake to improved mood, including a recently review of 11 studies involving over 15,000 participants that reported low folic acid levels were linked to increased depression. (Gilbody S, et al. J Epidemiol Community Health. 2007, 61(7):631-7.)

The Anti-Aging Bottom Line: More research is needed to confirm the link between folic acid intake and mood. But in the meantime, increasing your folic acid intake may be an effective strategy for alleviating depression, while at the same time reducing your risk for Alzheimer's and stroke.

QUICK TIP: Jean Carper says that folic acid keeps your brain sharp! Learn More

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Written exclusively for Stop Aging Now, the authority on anti-aging research, anti-aging nutrition, and anti-aging supplements.