Making men happy Just about this time every year, I get to feeling like it's never going to be warm or sunny again. Logically, I know that's not the case, but try convincing my mood of that: For the most part, it stays dark as long as the days do. I inherited my tendency toward seasonal affective disorder (SAD) from my father. But the other day I came across some good news -- for him (and for other men battling SAD), if not for myself. Researchers from the International Medical Center of Japan and the National Institute of Health and Nutrition recently discovered that folic acid may help ease symptoms of depression in men. After assessing the results of a survey conducted on over 500 subjects, they discovered that men with the highest intake of folate were half as likely to suffer from depression as men with the lowest intake. Oddly, the connection didn't cross gender lines: The researchers didn't find any significant link between women's folic acid intake and symptoms of depression. This study is just one in a growing number highlighting similar connections between folic acid and mood. For example, a recent review of 11 different studies involving over 15,000 patients conducted by researchers at the University of New York and Hull York Medical Center found a significant link between low folate levels and depression. And while the article I read didn't specify, I would venture to guess that some of those studies also found this link in the fairer sex. So the next step is pretty clear: If you're battling SAD -- or any other form of depression -- you should consider increasing your intake of folic acid. It's an essential nutrient that can only do your body good -- and if it helps your mind along the way, so much the better. Sources:
"Dietary intake of folate, other B vitamins, and omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids in relation to depressive symptoms in Japanese adults," Nutrition 2007; published online ahead of print 12/3/07
"Folate may reduce depression symptoms for men, says study," NutraIngredients (www.nutraingredients.com), 12/7/07 | 
