Source: J Epidemiol Community Health 2007; 61: 631-637
| Low folate levels linked to depression |
<< Back
28 June 2007
MedWire News: Low folate levels are linked with depression, concludes a meta-analysis published in the Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health.
"Folic acid is a cheap and commonly used food supplement, and the identification of low folate status as a plausible specific risk factor for depression raises the possibility of using folic acid supplementation or improved diet in the prevention and treatment of depression at the population level," the authors say.
Folate is involved in the synthesis of neurotransmitters such as serotonin, and the relationship between low folate levels and depression has been examined in various studies, but with conflicting results, Simon Gilbody (University of York, UK) and colleagues explain.
Gilbody and team therefore conducted a meta-analysis of 11 observational studies – three case-control studies, seven population surveys, and one cohort study –examining the association between depression and folate.
Pooling of all estimates for a total of 15,315 patients showed that folate status was significantly related to depression (odds ratio=1.55). This association remained significant after adjusting for confounding factors (odds ratio=1.42).
Gilbody et al conclude: "Our study is unique in that for the first time all the relevant evidence in this controversial area has been brought together. Although the research does not prove that low folate causes depression, we can now be sure that the two are linked.
"Interestingly, there is also some trial evidence that suggests folic acid supplements can benefit people with depression. We recommend that large trials should be carried out to further test this suggestion." |