OpenHealth Q&A

Exploring Alternatives to Vitamin D

Apologies for the lengthy narrative. Back in 2020, when I was only 24, I sought help from a rheumatologist who diagnosed me with both Osteoarthritis and Fibromyalgia. Following his recommendations, I was prescribed an initial daily dosage of 50,000 IU of Vitamin D. Unfortunately, this led to an intense wave of suicidal depression, a feeling I had previously only experienced when prescribed Gabapentin at the age of 20, and later Nortriptyline around the same time. The neurologist who prescribed those medications had diagnosed me with Peripheral Neuropathy. When I mentioned the depressive side effects from the Vitamin D to the rheumatologist, he dismissed my concerns, effectively telling me to keep taking the supplement. I complied for a while, but ultimately stopped when the side effects became intolerable. I chose not to return to his care due to his lack of empathy and understanding. Years later, either in 2021 or 2022, my primary care doctor informed me that my Vitamin D levels were critically low at 18, prompting him to recommend that I begin supplementation. Given my previous experience, I made it clear that I was apprehensive. He assured me that starting with a lower dose and gradually increasing it would be a safer approach. I opted for the mildest over-the-counter Vitamin D supplement available. Unfortunately, the troubling feelings of depression and suicidal thoughts recurred, intensifying with each incremental increase in dosage, appearing to escalate in a nonlinear fashion. As a result, I ultimately discontinued this supplement as well. Now I find myself grappling with the concern that my doctor, or any future physician, will pressure me to endure yet again the torturous experience of dealing with low Vitamin D levels. I’m left wondering if there are alternative methods or other supplements that could be undertaken alongside Vitamin D to alleviate these adverse effects. In 2023, amid all these challenges, I was also diagnosed with Anxiety (which is confusing to me, as I don't often feel anxious, though some signs could indicate otherwise), Major Depressive Disorder, and Bipolar II Disorder. My treatment has included medications like Lamotrigine and Duloxetine. Recently, my psychiatrist and therapist have raised the possibility of OCD or OCPD affecting my mental health, and we are currently looking into that. Additionally, I have a significant sensitivity to numerous plants and trees common to my region. On a personal note, I've undergone blood tests that have sometimes revealed unusual results, particularly low white blood cell counts. While this is often not a serious concern, I have faced three severe episodes where my counts plummeted dangerously low. In one particularly alarming instance, I had just over 10% of the expected count. Intriguingly, these concerning results seemed to coincide with summer months—a period when I also experience my most challenging episodes of depression. I recall reading a study that suggested a connection between low white blood cell levels and the exacerbation of symptoms in males with Bipolar Disorder, though instances of this are reportedly rare. I’ve noticed that certain foods can occasionally trigger feelings of mild depression; salmon is the one I find most consistently linked to this reaction. Yet this isn’t always the case, as it can also have uplifting effects. This makes it hard to pinpoint the precise relationship between food intake and mood changes. Since my experiences with Gabapentin and Nortriptyline, I feel as if my thoughts and emotional landscape have altered significantly. The depression I experience now encompasses a different facet that was previously absent. Current medications have benefited me in many respects, diminishing various aspects of my depressive state, but this particular dimension persists and is increasing in magnitude as a concern. There are additional issues I have noticed, but I often hesitate to mention them to clinicians as they either seem trivial, were disregarded in past discussions, or are simply too complex to articulate clearly.

Answers (1)

3/18/2025, 9:21:02 PM

OpenHealth AI

It's understandable to feel concerned about your vitamin D levels and the associated mental health effects you've experienced. Your past reactions to vitamin D supplementation, as well as your complex medical history, indicate a need for a careful, personalized approach to managing your health. Let’s explore some potential alternatives and strategies for your situation.

Main Points

1. Depression Linked to Vitamin D: You've experienced severe depression linked to vitamin D supplements.
2. Alternatives and Support: It's crucial to find alternatives to vitamin D that support your health while minimizing negative effects.
3. Holistic Approach: Given your mental health conditions, a broader strategy encompassing lifestyle changes and nutrient support is vital.

Explanation

Vitamin D is important for health, particularly for bone health and immune function; however, it can have varying effects on mood. Your experience of increased depression with supplementation is not uncommon, and sensitivity to certain substances, including supplements, can occur especially with complex mental health histories.

Since traditional vitamin D supplementation has proven problematic for you, we will consider dietary and lifestyle alternatives, and other means to address any possible deficiency safely.

Next Steps

1. Explore Dietary Sources: Instead of supplements, try to incorporate food sources rich in vitamin D, such as:

   • Fatty fish (if tolerated)
   • Egg yolks
   • Fortified dairy or non-dairy milk
   • Mushrooms exposed to sunlight

   Note: Monitor your mood as you try new foods to see if there are any triggers.

2. Sunlight Exposure: Safe, moderate sun exposure can help with natural vitamin D production. Aim for about 15-20 minutes a few times a week without sunscreen on arms and legs (always balance this with skin protection to avoid sun damage).

3. Nutritional Support: Consider ensuring you have a balanced diet with nutrients that support mood regulation, such as:

   • Omega-3 fatty acids (e.g., from fish oil or flaxseed oil – discuss food sensitivity first).
   • Magnesium-rich foods (like leafy greens, nuts, seeds) may help with mood stabilization.

4. Monitoring & Documentation: Keep a journal to track your dietary intake, moods, and any other symptoms. This can be helpful to identify patterns over time, especially as you navigate your sensitivities and mental health.

5. Therapeutic Support: Continue working with your mental health team. Discuss your concerns about vitamin D and explore whether specific nutrient needs (like B vitamins or minerals) or other supplements might be beneficial without negative side effects.

It's important to work collaboratively with your healthcare providers, sharing your experiences and findings from your journal can greatly assist them in tailoring your treatment. You deserve a medical approach that respects your experiences and prioritizes your mental and physical well-being.