Positive Health Online

Abstract

MAZLOOM and COLLEAGUES, Department of Nutrition, School of Health and Nutrition, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran conducted a randomized single-blind study to evaluate effects of two antioxidants (vitamin C and vitamin E) upon Stress, depression and anxiety levels in 45 diabetic patients for six weeks.

Background

Diabetes mellitus as one of the most prevalent endocrine disease is associated with high oxidative stress. Anxiety, stress and depression are common neuropsychiatric features in diabetic patients. Hyperglycaemia leads to increased oxidative stress which in turn diminishes antioxidant defence system. On the other hand oxidative stress is the leading cause of depression and anxiety disorders. Thus, it seems that diabetes could accelerate the trend of psychiatric diseases.

Methodology

In this randomized single-blind study, evaluation of the effects of two antioxidants (vitamin C and vitamin E) was done on stress, depression and anxiety levels in 45 diabetic patients for six weeks. The patients were randomly divided in three groups of vitamin E (400 IU day(-1)), vitamin C (1000 mg day(-1)) and placebo. DASS-21 (Depression Anxiety Stress Scales 21-item) questionnaire items were read to each patient and completed by the main investigator of this study before and after six weeks of supplementation. The scores of depression, anxiety and stress were evaluated separately based on the DASS questionnaire.

Results

The results showed a significant decrease in anxiety level (p = 0.005) in vitamin C group compared to other groups but there were no significant differences between groups in terms of changes in stress and depression scores.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this study suggests that short-term supplementation of vitamin C is safe and beneficial for reducing anxiety levels in diabetic patients through alleviating oxidative damage.

References

Mazloom Z, Ekramzadeh M, Hejazi N. Efficacy of supplementary vitamins C and E on anxiety, depression and stress in type 2 diabetic patients: a randomized, single-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Pak J Biol Sci. 16(22):1597-600. Nov 15 2013.

Comment

The above research demonstrated a significant effect of 1000 mg per day Vitamin C supplements upon anxiety level in patients with diabetes. Vitamin C has universal positive clinical effects; these authors were research psychological parameters.