Best Mood Boosting Supplements: Natural Ways to Improve Mental Health
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About the Author: Daryl Stubbs
Navigate the ups and down of life with strength and resilience, by using the best mood-boosting supplements. These potent allies in your journey to wellness go beyond mere promises, delivering a scientifically-backed blend of natural ingredients known to promote emotional balance, mental clarity, and a sense of overall wellbeing. Not just about countering gloomy days, these top-rated supplements improve your mental health naturally and empower you to fully embrace the beauty of every moment. Transform your relationship with your mind and uplift your spirit as you discover the best mood-boosting supplements – a cornerstone to creating a happier, healthier, and more fulfilled life.
Feeling down, anxious, or stressed? You’re not alone. In fact, according to the World Health Organization, over 264 million people worldwide suffer from depression, and anxiety disorders are the most common mental health disorders in the United States.
While prescription medications can be effective for treating these conditions, many people are turning to natural alternatives, such as mood-boosting supplements, to improve their mental health.
Mood-boosting supplements can help regulate mood, reduce stress and anxiety, and promote overall mental health.
From omega-3 fatty acids to adaptogenic herbs, there are several natural supplements that can improve mood and cognitive function. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best mood-boosting supplements, their benefits, and how to incorporate them into your daily routine.
The Best Mood Boosting Supplement Brands
The two best mood boosting supplement brands are from Cymbiotika and BrainMD (Dr. Daniel Amen Supplements).
Cymbiotika is a fantastic brand that offers high-quality mood-boosting supplements. Here are some of their popular products that I recommend:
- Synergy D3 + K2: This supplement combines vitamin D3 and vitamin K2 to support mood, bone health, and immune function. It’s amazing for overall health, brain health, and mental health.
- Omega-3 DHA + EPA: This supplement contains a blend of omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to improve mood and reduce symptoms of major depressive disorder.
- B12 + Folate: This supplement contains methylated forms of vitamin B12 and folate (vitamin b6), which can help to improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. This combination will make you feel amazing because B6 helps with dopamine production as well as serotonin. These help regulate your mood, appetite, and sleep so if you’re deficient in this it can cause confusion, depression, and even skin rashes. B12 helps convert your food to cellular energy and if you’re deficient in this you’ll experience fatigue, tingling in your hands and feet, depression, and anemia. These are essential b vitamins for low serotonin levels.
- Golden Mind: This supplement contains a blend of adaptogenic herbs, including ashwagandha, rhodiola, and ginkgo biloba, which can help to reduce stress and help with a positive mood.
- Adrenal Super Tonic: This supplement contains a blend of adaptogenic herbs, including ashwagandha, rhodiola, and schisandra, which can help to support adrenal function and improve mood and energy levels.
Not sure if you’re going to take the right supplement? Try this 2 minute quiz to find a specific supplement to improve your mood.
Cymbiotika products are made with high-quality, organic ingredients and are free from fillers, additives, and synthetic nutrients. They are also third-party tested for purity and potency, so you can be sure you’re getting a safe and effective product.
BrainMD supplements can help boost mood by supporting the production and balance of neurotransmitters, which play a crucial role in regulating mood.
Some of the BrainMD supplements that can help improve mood include:
- Serotonin Mood Support : This supplement contains a blend of ingredients designed to boost serotonin production, which can increase calmness, decrease anxiousness, and promote a positive mood. It contains B vitamins (B6, B9, and B12), which are linked to positive mood, as well as 5-HTP, a metabolite that converts to serotonin as needed.
- Brain & Body Power : This daily essential vitamin pack includes a brain-boosting formula with ingredients like PhosphatidylSerine (PS), Acetyl-L-Carnitine (ALC), Alpha-Lipoic Acid (ALA), and Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ), which promote optimal brain function and support the aging brain.
- SAMe Mood and Movement 400: This supplement features a clinically researched dose of SAMe (S-Adenosyl-L-Methionine), which helps manufacture epinephrine, a neurotransmitter that regulates mood. Clinical studies have shown that SAMe promotes a positive outlook.
- Happy Saffron Plus: This mood-enhancing supplement contains three nutraceutical ingredients with proven mood and cognitive benefits. It was developed from clinical research to improve mood, cope with anxious feelings, and enhance focus while under mental stress.
- NeuroLink: This natural mood stabilizer contains a combination of nutraceuticals that help fine-tune brain chemistry by supporting neurotransmitter balance. It includes ingredients like Vitamin B6, L-Tyrosine, GABA, L-Glutamine, and 5-Hydroxytryptophan, which help maintain healthy brain neurotransmitters.
Are you taking the right supplements for your brain? Take Dr. Daniel Amen’s FREE Brain Health Assessment to find out!
By incorporating these supplements into your daily routine, you may experience improvements in mood, calmness, and overall emotional well-being.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Essential for Brain Health and Mood Regulation
Omega-3 fatty acids are a type of polyunsaturated fat that are essential for brain health and function.
These fatty acids are crucial for building and maintaining cell membranes, and they play a role in many biological processes, including inflammation, blood clotting, and hormone production.
Studies have shown that omega-3 fatty acids can improve mood and cognitive function.
In fact, some research has suggested that low levels of omega-3 fatty acids may be associated with an increased risk of clinical depression and other mood disorders.
The two main types of omega 3 fatty acid found in food are eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). EPA and DHA are found in fatty fish, such as salmon, tuna, and sardines, as well as in algae-based supplements.
Another type of omega-3 fatty acid, alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), is found in plant-based sources such as flaxseed, chia seeds, and walnuts.
However, ALA is not as effective as EPA and DHA at improving mood and cognitive function.
If you don’t consume enough omega-3 fatty acids in your diet, you may want to consider taking a supplement. Omega-3 supplements can come in the form of fish oil capsules or algae-based supplements.
It’s important to choose a supplement that is high in EPA and DHA and to follow the recommended dosage on the label.
In addition to improving mood, omega-3 fatty acids have several other health benefits, including reducing inflammation, improving heart health, and supporting healthy brain development in infants and children.
Vitamin D: Essential for Brain Health and Mood Regulation
Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that is essential for several bodily functions, including bone health and immune function.
It’s also important for brain health and mood regulation. Vitamin D receptors are found in several areas of the brain, including the hippocampus, which is involved in memory and mood regulation.
Vitamin D deficiency has been associated with an increased risk of depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders.
In fact, one study found that people with low levels of vitamin D were more likely to experience major depression than those with higher levels.
Vitamin D is primarily obtained through sun exposure, but it can also be found in certain foods, such as fatty fish, egg yolks, and fortified foods such as milk and cereal.
However, it can be difficult to get enough vitamin D through food alone, especially during the winter months when sun exposure is limited.
If you’re not getting enough vitamin D from sunlight or food, you may want to consider taking a supplement.
Vitamin D supplements are available in both D2 and D3 forms. D3 is more effective at raising blood levels of vitamin D and is the preferred form of vitamin D supplement.
It’s important to talk to your healthcare provider before starting a vitamin D supplement, as taking too much can be harmful.
The recommended daily intake of vitamin D varies depending on age and other factors, so your healthcare provider can help you determine the right dosage for you.
In addition to improving mood, vitamin D has several other health benefits, including improving bone health, reducing inflammation, and supporting immune function.
B Vitamins: Essential for Energy and Mood
B vitamins are a group of vitamins that are essential for several bodily functions, including energy production and mood regulation.
They work together to convert food into energy and help support the nervous system, which is important for maintaining a healthy mood.
Some of the most important B vitamins for mood regulation include B6, B12, and folate. Low levels of these vitamins have been associated with an increased risk of depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders.
B6, also known as pyridoxine, is important for the production of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine, which are essential for mood regulation. B12, also known as cobalamin, is important for the production of red blood cells and the maintenance of the nervous system.
Low levels of B12 have been associated with fatigue, weakness, and depression.
Folate, also known as folic acid, is important for DNA synthesis and cell division. Low levels of folate have been associated with an increased risk of depression and other mood disorders.
B vitamins are found in a variety of foods, including whole grains, leafy green vegetables, meat, fish, and dairy products. However, it can be difficult to get enough vitamin b through diet alone, especially for those who follow a vegetarian or vegan diet.
B vitamin supplements are available in several forms, including capsules, tablets, and injections. In addition, B vitamin supplements are not a substitute for a healthy diet, so it’s important to eat a balanced diet that includes a variety of B vitamin-rich foods.
In addition to improving mood, B vitamins have several other health benefits, including improving energy levels, reducing inflammation, and supporting the immune system.
Probiotics: Essential To Stabilize Your Mood
Probiotics play a crucial role in maintaining healthy gut microbiota, which is the collection of microorganisms that live in the digestive tract.
A healthy gut microbiome has been linked to several positive effects, including improved digestion, a stronger immune system, and even better mood.
Studies have shown that certain strains of probiotics, such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, can improve mood and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.
This is because these strains of probiotics can produce neurotransmitters such as serotonin and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which are important for regulating mood.
Probiotics are live bacteria that can improve gastrointestinal health and potentially boost emotional health too.
The gut-brain axis (GBA) is the communication network between the gut and brain, and experts believe microorganisms living in the gut, including probiotics, play a crucial role in this axis.
Recent studies suggest that consuming probiotics may help improve mood and cognitive functions such as emotional processing.
Some research has found that probiotics may help boost mood and cognitive function and lower stress and anxiety.
In recent years, some experts have turned their attention to a special group of probiotics called psychobiotics. These bacteria could potentially help treat a range of mental health conditions, including depression, and boost overall mood.
A 2017 research review looking at how probiotics affect symptoms of depression found that taking a daily probiotic supplement seemed to help with symptoms of both depression and anxiety.
Probiotics also seemed to work best when used in conjunction with other treatments, including medication and psychotherapy.
Although it’s tempting to link probiotic use with mood, more research is needed to determine the effectiveness of probiotics for improving emotional health.
Right now, there isn’t enough proof that taking probiotics alone will improve your mood or cognitive function. However, existing research on probiotics for depression and other mental health issues is largely promising. We know that your bacteria in your gut microbiome plays a large role in every aspect of your health, eat fermented foods at minimum if you don’t decide to choose a probiotic
Adaptogenic Herbs: Natural Stress-Relievers
Adaptogenic herbs are a group of herbs that help the body adapt to stress. They work by regulating the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which is the body’s stress response system. By regulating the HPA axis, adaptogenic herbs can help reduce stress and anxiety, improve mood, and promote overall mental health.
Some of the most popular adaptogenic herbs include ashwagandha, rhodiola, and holy basil.
Ashwagandha is an herb that has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries to improve overall health and vitality.
Studies have shown that ashwagandha can reduce stress and anxiety, improve mood, and even improve cognitive function.
Rhodiola is another adaptogenic herb that has been shown to reduce occasional stress and anxiety, improve mood, and increase mental performance.
Holy basil, also known as tulsi, is an herb that is commonly used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine. Studies have shown that holy basil can help reduce stress and anxiety, improve mood, and enhance cognitive function.
Adaptogenic herbs are available in several forms, including capsules, powders, and teas. It’s important to choose a high-quality supplement from a reputable manufacturer to ensure that you’re getting a safe and effective product.
While adaptogenic herbs are generally safe and well-tolerated, they can interact with certain medications, so it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider before starting a supplement regimen.
In addition, adaptogenic herbs are not a substitute for professional medical care, so it’s important to seek medical attention if you’re experiencing symptoms of depression or anxiety.
St. John’s Wort: Natural Antidepressant
St. John’s Wort is a popular herbal supplement that has been used for centuries to treat a variety of ailments, including depression.
It is believed to work by increasing the levels of serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine in the brain, which are neurotransmitters that play a crucial role in regulating mood.
Several studies have found that St. John’s Wort can be effective in reducing symptoms of mild depression. In fact, some studies have found that it may be as effective as prescription antidepressants, but with fewer side effects.
However, St. John’s Wort can interact with certain medications, including antidepressant medications, birth control pills, and blood thinners, so it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider before taking this supplement.
In addition, it can cause side effects such as dry mouth, dizziness, and gastrointestinal symptoms.
Overall, St John’s Wort can be a safe and effective natural alternative to prescription antidepressants for those with mild to moderate depression. However, it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen.
Saffron: Natural Mood stabilizer
Saffron is a spice derived from the Crocus sativus plant and has been used for centuries for its culinary and medicinal properties. It is believed to have several health benefits, including improving mood and reducing symptoms of depression.
Studies have shown that saffron can be as effective as prescription antidepressants in reducing symptoms of depression.
It is believed to work by increasing the levels of serotonin and dopamine in the brain, which are neurotransmitters that regulate mood.
In addition to its mood-enhancing properties, saffron also has several other health benefits.
It has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer.
Saffron is available in several forms, including capsules, tablets, and powders.
It’s important to choose a high-quality supplement from a reputable manufacturer to ensure that you’re getting a safe and effective product.
While saffron is generally safe and well-tolerated, it can cause side effects in some people, such as dry mouth, dizziness, and gastrointestinal symptoms.
It can also interact with certain medications, so it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider before taking this supplement.
Overall, saffron can be a safe and effective natural alternative to prescription antidepressants for those with mild to moderate depression. However, it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen.
How Do Mood-Boosting Supplements Work?
Mood-boosting supplements work in various ways to improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Here are some of the ways in which these supplements can work:
Regulating neurotransmitters:
Many mood-boosting supplements work by regulating the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain, such as serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine.
These neurotransmitters play a crucial role in regulating mood, and imbalances can lead to depression and anxiety.
Reducing inflammation:
Chronic inflammation has been linked to depression and other mood disorders.
Some supplements, such as omega 3 fatty acids and curcumin, have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the body and improve mood.
Supporting gut health:
The gut-brain axis is a communication system between the gut and the brain that plays a crucial role in regulating mood. Some supplements, such as probiotics and prebiotics, can help support gut health and improve mood.
Reducing stress:
Chronic stress can lead to depression and anxiety. Some supplements, such as ashwagandha and Rhodiola rosea, are adaptogens that help the body cope with stress and reduce cortisol levels.
Providing essential nutrients:
Some supplements, such as B vitamins and magnesium, are essential for the proper functioning of the nervous system and can help improve mood.
It’s important to note that while these supplements can be effective in improving mood and reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety, they should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice and treatment.
If you’re experiencing symptoms of depression or anxiety, it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider about the best treatment options for you.
Factors to Consider Before Taking Mood-Boosting Supplements
While mood-boosting supplements can be effective in improving mood and reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety, there are several factors to consider before taking these supplements.
Here are some things to keep in mind:
Safety:
It’s important to choose a high-quality supplement from a reputable manufacturer to ensure that you’re getting a safe and effective product. Some supplements can interact with medications or have side effects, so it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen.
Dosage:
It’s important to follow the recommended dosage for any supplement to ensure that you’re not taking too much or too little. Taking too much of a supplement can lead to side effects, while taking too little may not be effective.
Quality:
The quality of supplements can vary greatly, so it’s important to do your research and choose a supplement that has been tested for purity and potency. Look for supplements that have been certified by third-party organizations, such as the US Pharmacopeia or NSF International.
Individual needs:
Different supplements may work better for different individuals, depending on their specific needs and health conditions. It’s important to talk to your healthcare provider about which supplements may be best for you based on your individual needs.
Lifestyle factors:
Lifestyle factors, such as diet, exercise, and stress levels, can also affect mood. It’s important to address these factors in addition to taking supplements to ensure that you’re addressing the root cause of any mood imbalances.
Overall, mood-boosting supplements can be a safe and effective natural alternative to prescription antidepressants for those with mild to moderate depression. However, it’s important to consider these factors and talk to your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen.
Conclusion
In conclusion, mood-boosting supplements can be a helpful tool in managing mood imbalances, reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety, and improving overall well-being. Supplements like B vitamins, probiotics, adaptogens, St. John’s Wort, and saffron have been shown to be effective in boosting mood and reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety.
By considering safety, dosage, quality, individual needs, and lifestyle factors, you can choose the best mood-boosting supplement for your needs and ensure that you’re getting a safe and effective product.
With the right supplement and a holistic approach to mental health, you can improve your mood, reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, and live a happier, healthier life.
