Vitamin B and OCD: Can It Help?

Research has shown that Vitamin B can help treat obsessive compulsive disorder. While the US Food and Drug Administration does not consider Vitamin B an effective cure for OCD, it can help alleviate symptoms and improve general health.

Vitamin B

• Eight water-soluble vitamins make up the B vitamins which play an important role in cell metabolism. Vitamin B complex supplements contain all eight B vitamins.

Vitamin B for OCD

• Patients with OCD are encouraged to take the daily minimum requirement of vitamin b-complex which is 50 mg per day for adults. Inositol, contained in B vitamins, help regulate serotonin receptors in biochemical processes which can help offset imbalances caused by OCD.

Dosage

• It is recommended to take a b-complex supplement 3 times per day in order to get a good dose of b12, b6, and folic acid. These elements help to stabilize mood swings.

Effectiveness

• Vitamin B can help improve mood but results often take days or even weeks to experience. It is advised to take Vitamin B alongside other supplements including magnesium, calcium, niacinamide and theanine fish oil to enhance effectiveness.

Risks

• The most common side effect of taking a b-complex is a bright yellow coloring of the patient's urine. If any other side effects are experienced, it is advised to stop taking the complex and/or consult a medical professional.