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Evidence Suggests Depression Not Caused by Low Serotonin
A review of 17 studies published in Molecular Psychiatry showed no association between depression and low serotonin levels. The authors recommend further research into the effects of commonly prescribed medications to treat depression, as the evidence does not substantiate the serotonin theory of depression.
A Physicians Committee study found significant mood improvement in those who ate plant-based diets, due to anti-inflammatory effects, changes to the gut microbiome, reduced blood viscosity and increased tissue oxygenation, and other health benefits.
References
- Moncrieff J, Cooper RE, Stockmann T, Amendola S, Hengartner MP, Horowitz MA. The serotonin theory of depression: a systematic umbrella review of the evidence. Mol Psychiatry. Published online July 20, 2022. doi:10.1038/s41380-022-01661-0
- Agarwal U, Mishra S, Xu J, Levin S, Gonzales J, Barnard ND. A multicenter randomized controlled trial of a nutrition intervention program in a multiethnic adult population in the corporate setting reduces anxiety and improves quality of life: The GEICO Study. Am J Health Promot. 2015;29(4):245-254. doi:10.4278/ajhp.130218-QUAN-72
