Using nutraceuticals in the management of major depressive disorder (MDD): Approach to be considered for sustainable healthcare systems, Dr. Nahlaa Khalifa and Dr. Elham Aljaaly
Dr. Nahlaa Khalifa
Department of Clinical Nutrition, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences
King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah
Saudi Arabia
Email: nahlaakhalifa@outlook.com
Dr. Elham Abbas Aljaaly
Department of Clinical Nutrition, Medical Applied College
King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah
Saudi Arabia
DOI: 10.1108/WJSTSD-01-2016-0007
Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to study evidence-based records on the impact of some effective nutraceuticals on major depression disorder management; and describe the antidepressant properties of nutraceuticals to achieve health policy targets and maintain a sustainable healthcare system.
Design/methodology/approach: The literature was searched using MEDLINE (PubMed), Google Scholar, PsycINFO and Quertile databases and retrieving relevant published articles in peer-reviewed journals.
Findings: The results provided evidence of a range of nutraceuticals with potential benefits in the management of depression. Studies support the anti-depressant properties of S-adenosyl methionine, folnic acid, 5-hydroxytryptophan and omega-3 fatty acids. The results might represent evidence for an innovative adjunctive neurobiological line for the management and treatment of depression.
Practical implications: Randomized-controlled trials and evaluations continue to provide evidence for the use of nutraceuticals in the treatment of depression.
Social implications: Nutraceuticals emphasize the personalized medicine, which offers a psychophysical balance to the individual.
Originality/value: Nutraceuticals have specific antidepressant properties that may be beneficial in psychiatric populations and reduce pharmacotherapeutic side effects.
Keywords: 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP); Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM); Major depressive disorder; Nutraceuticals; Omega-3; S-adenosyl methionine (SAMe).
Citation: Khalifa, N. and Aljaaly, E.A. (2017), "Using nutraceuticals in the management of major depressive disorder (MDD): Approach to be considered for sustainable healthcare systems", World Journal of Science, Technology and Sustainable Development, Vol. 14 No. 1, pp. 50-59. https://doi.org/10.1108/WJSTSD-01-2016-0007
