Folate linked to depression

Depression affects between 5-10% of people worldwide. A recent review of studies examining their association found a link between low folate status and depression.

Although the mechanism is not confirmed, folate is linked to the production of neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, and also to the metabolism of DNA.

While this link has not driven the fortification of folate here or overseas, the researchers highlight that countries with mandatory folate fortification are less likely to have low population levels of folate, which can only be positive.

Source: Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health, July 2007