Feeling psychologically strained or blue at work? A simple, daily B vitamin supplement may be an answer.

Australia’s Centre for Human Psychopharmacology, at Swinburne University of Technology, and the National Institute of Complementary Medicine recently partnered in a study assessing the personalities, work demands and mood, anxiety and strain experienced by 60 men and women. Half the group took a nutrient-herb-blend supplement with the full spectrum of B vitamins plus calcium, magnesium and vitamin C, nutrients known to help with the stress response; and passionflower and oats, which also soothe the nervous system. The other half received a placebo.

At the end of three months, controlling for differences in personality and work demands, the B-complex treatment group reported significantly lower personal strain. The supplement group also reported decreased feelings of depression/dejection, anger/ hostility and tension/anxiety, as well as less fatigue. The placebo group noticed no such changes.

It’s wise to talk with a doctor or other health professional before beginning any supplementation program; bottled Bs may interact with certain medications and with each other. B vitamins occur naturally in meat and tuna; whole grains; leafy greens like collards, kale and Swiss chard; lentils and beans; broccoli, Brussels sprouts and cabbage; and potatoes and oranges.