Mood Support By NOW Overview & Drug Interactions

Niacin, also known as vitamin B3, is a water-soluble vitamin found in a variety of foods, including meat, poultry, fish, and fortified grains. It plays a variety of roles in the body, including in the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also necessary for the production of energy in the body and in the synthesis of different hormones. Niacin deficiency is rare in developed countries, however, supplementation has been shown to have several positive benefits. For example, it can reduce the risk of diabetic neuropathy (i.e., nerve pain) and has been shown effective for treating some types of high cholesterol (extended-release niacin is used as a prescription drug in the United States for this purpose). There is a multitude of niacin forms available as dietary supplements, including NADH, niacinamide, and nicotinamide riboside, all with different properties.

Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is a water-soluble vitamin crucial for several bodily functions. It plays a pivotal role in the formation of red blood cells, aiding in the prevention of anemia. Vitamin B12 is essential for maintaining a healthy nervous system and proper brain function, as it is involved in the synthesis of myelin, the protective sheath around nerve fibers. This vitamin is primarily found in animal-based foods such as meat, fish, dairy products, and eggs, making it important for vegetarians and vegans to consider supplementation. A deficiency in vitamin B12 can lead to neurological issues, fatigue, and cognitive impairment.

Magnesium is a mineral that is essential for the proper functioning of the body. It plays a role in many important physiological processes, including the contraction and relaxation of muscles, the transmission of nerve impulses, and the regulation of blood pressure. Magnesium is found in a variety of foods, including leafy green vegetables, nuts, and grains, and it is also available as a dietary supplement. There are several different forms of magnesium that are available as supplements, all of which can be used to prevent deficiency. Additionally, magnesium is purported to have several different health benefits, such as improving sleep, reducing muscle cramps, reducing anxiety, and preventing or treating migraines. Although magnesium is essential for health, magnesium-containing foods and supplements can interact with some prescription medications if used at the same time.

Zinc is a mineral that is essential for the proper functioning of the human body. It is involved in many important physiological processes, including immune system function, wound healing, taste, and smell. Zinc is found in a variety of foods, including meat, seafood, and whole grains, and it is also available as a dietary supplement. Zinc supplements may be used to treat or prevent zinc deficiency, which can occur due to certain medical conditions, such as gastrointestinal disorders, alcohol abuse, and certain medications. Zinc supplements may also be used for other purposes, such as to boost the immune system, improve acne, and reduce the severity and duration of colds. There are several different forms of zinc supplements available, including zinc gluconate, zinc acetate, and zinc sulfate. The most common form of zinc supplements is zinc gluconate, which is well absorbed and is less likely to cause stomach-related side effects than other forms of zinc.

Manganese is an essential trace mineral that plays a vital role in various physiological processes within the human body. It is required for proper brain function, bone formation, enzyme activation, and wound healing. Manganese also contributes to metabolism, antioxidant defense, and the formation of connective tissues.

St. John's wort (Hypericum perforatum) is a plant native to Europe and is known for its medicinal properties. St. John's wort has been used to treat a variety of conditions, including depression, anxiety, and sleep disorders. It is one of the most extensively used and researched natural medicines in the world, and is thought to work similarly to certain conventional antidepressants by increasing the levels of serotonin in the brain.

Basil is an herb that is native to tropical regions of Asia and Africa and is commonly used in cooking to add flavor to a variety of dishes. It is a member of the mint family (Lamiaceae) and is known for its fragrant, sweet, and slightly spicy aroma. Basil also has a history of medicinal use and has been used for headache, stomach spasms, flatulence, diarrhea, constipation, peptic ulcers, kidney conditions, the common cold, warts, and parasite infections. Studies of basil show it is a rich source of vitamin C, carotenoids, calcium, magnesium, potassium, and iron. It is also used as an essential oil, which contains linalool, estragole (methyl chavicol), eugenol, methyl cinnamate, o-cymene, citral, alpha-pinene, camphene, beta-pinene, gamma-terpinene, cineole, menthol, rosmarinic acid, geraniol, and geranial.

Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) is a perennial herb native to Europe and Asia. The plant is known for its strong, distinctive odor and its purported medicinal effects. Valerian contains a number of active compounds, including valerenic acid and valepotriates, which are believed to have a sedative effect on the body and are may to be helpful in the treatment of insomnia and anxiety. Valerian is also believed to have mild tranquilizing and muscle-relaxing properties and may be helpful in the treatment of muscle spasms and other muscle disorders. The root of the valerian plant is most commonly utilized in dietary supplements and is often standardized for valerenic acid content.

5-HTP, or 5-hydroxytryptophan, is a naturally-occurring amino acid and a precursor to the neurotransmitter serotonin. It is used as a dietary supplement to improve mood and help with anxiety, sleep disorders, and other conditions. It is also sometimes used in combination with other medications to treat migraines and fibromyalgia. The 5-HTP found in supplements is most often obtained from the seeds of the tropical shrub Griffonia simplicifolia

Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is an inhibitory neurotransmitter that is involved in a variety of functions, including regulating brain activity and behavior, relaxation, and sleep. GABA is endogenously produced in the brain from the amino acid glutamate and is responsible for inhibiting the activity of nerve cells in the brain and central nervous system. GABA is a popular dietary supplement and is used to help reduce anxiety and improve sleep, but more research is needed to determine its safety and effectiveness.

Theanine, often referred to as L-theanine as that is the predominant isomer of theanine, is an amino acid commonly found in tea leaves, particularly in green tea. It is purported to increase levels of GABA, serotonin, and dopamine in the brain, which can help to reduce stress and anxiety. L-theanine may also promote a sense of calm and improve overall well-being. Some studies have also suggested that it may improve cognitive function, although more research is needed. Most reported drug interactions with theanine are due to its sedative effects.