Zinc, Magnesium, Selenium and Depression: A Review of the Evidence, Potential Mechanisms and Implications

Summary

This narrative review synthesises evidence linking three key micronutrients—zinc, magnesium and selenium—to depression risk. The authors find strongest empirical support for zinc deficiency as a risk factor for depression and zinc supplementation as reducing depressive symptoms, with less conclusive evidence for magnesium and selenium. The review proposes mechanistic pathways involving the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis, glutamate homeostasis and immune-inflammatory processes, and identifies common dietary sources, suggesting adequate micronutrient consumption may be important for mental health.

UK applicability

The findings are relevant to UK dietary guidance and clinical practice, as micronutrient deficiency is preventable through adequate consumption of foods rich in zinc, magnesium and selenium. UK healthcare providers may consider micronutrient status assessment in depression management, though the review indicates further prospective research and safety/efficacy studies of supplementation are needed before definitive clinical recommendations can be made.

Key measures

Associations between micronutrient status (zinc, magnesium, selenium) and depression risk; mechanisms of action via HPA axis, glutamate homeostasis and inflammatory pathways; dietary sources of micronutrients

Outcomes reported

The review synthesised empirical evidence for associations between zinc, magnesium and selenium deficiency and depression risk, and evaluated potential mechanistic pathways. The study identified dietary sources of these micronutrients and discussed clinical implications for mental health promotion and supplementation.

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