The role of nutrients in protecting mitochondrial function and neurotransmitter signaling: implications for the treatment of depression, PTSD, and suicidal behaviors

Critical reviews in food science and nutrition, 56(15), 2560–2578.
This 2016 review explains how various nutrients can protect mitochondria and lipids in the neuronal circuits associated with cognitive and affective behaviors from oxidation, and how these nutrients like ω3 fatty acids, vitamin B12, folic acid, vitamin C, zinc, and magnesium can possibly enhance neurocognitive function and also have a positive influence on depression and suicidal behaviors. There is also evidence to suggest the regular consumption of these nutrients may help prevent the onset of mood disorders and suicidal behaviors in vulnerable people, or even add to the therapeutic effect of the current and available antidepressants. Since preclinical rodent studies have indicated that chronic stress and the stress hormone cortisol may cause oxidative damage to mitochondrial function and membrane lipids in the brain, the various findings presented in this review could have important implications for the health of both military and civilian populations. [NPID: PTSD, trauma, mitochondria, lipids, neuronal circuits, cognition, affect, behavior, fatty acids, vitamin B12, B12, folic acid, vitamin C, zinc, magnesium, neurocognitive function, suicide, oxidative stress, military]

Year: 2016

Reference: Du, J., Zhu, M., Bao, H., Li, B., Dong, Y., Xiao, C., Zhang, G. Y., Henter, I., Rudorfer, M., & Vitiello, B. (2016). The Role of Nutrients in Protecting Mitochondrial Function and Neurotransmitter Signaling: Implications for the Treatment of Depression, PTSD, and Suicidal Behaviors. Critical reviews in food science and nutrition, 56(15), 2560–2578. https://doi.org/10.1080/10408398.2013.876960

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