Anserine for Depression? New Study Shows Promise

review PMID: 38545720

Quick Summary: Research suggests that taking supplements containing Anserine, a natural compound, may help reduce symptoms of depression and improve overall quality of life. This was found in a review of multiple studies.

What The Research Found

Scientists looked at several studies and found that people taking supplements with Anserine experienced:

Fewer symptoms of depression

Improved quality of life, including better physical and mental health

Study Details

Who was studied: Over 1,200 adults (ages 18-65) with depression or symptoms of depression.

How long: The studies lasted between 4 to 12 weeks.

What they took: Participants took supplements containing Anserine (and sometimes carnosine) in varying doses, from 50mg to 2,000mg daily, or a placebo (a "dummy" pill).

What This Means For You

If you're struggling with depression or low mood, Anserine supplements might help. This research suggests it could be a helpful addition to your routine.

Talk to your doctor: Before starting any new supplement, especially if you're already taking medication for depression.

Consider it as a possible support: This research shows promise, but it's not a cure. It could be a helpful addition to other treatments.

Look for quality products: If you decide to try Anserine, choose a reputable brand.

Study Limitations

It's important to keep these things in mind:

More research is needed: The studies had different dosages and methods, so more consistent research is needed.

Not for everyone: The studies were mostly done in Asia and Europe, so the results might not be the same for everyone.

Short-term study: The studies only looked at the effects for a few months, so we don't know the long-term effects.

Consult a doctor: Always talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement.

Key Findings

The meta-analysis found that histidine-containing dipeptides (HCDs), including Anserine, significantly reduced depression symptoms (standardized mean difference [SMD] = -0.62, 95% CI: -0.89 to -0.35, p < 0.001) and improved quality of life (SMD = 0.48, 95% CI: 0.21–0.75, p = 0.0007) compared to placebo. Effects were consistent across both clinical and non-clinical populations, with moderate-to-large effect sizes observed.

Study Design

This systematic review and meta-analysis pooled data from 15 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving 1,200 adults (aged 18–65 years) with depression or subclinical mental health symptoms. Trials lasted 4–12 weeks, with participants randomly assigned to HCD supplementation or placebo. Outcomes were measured using validated scales (e.g., Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale [HADS], SF-36 Health Survey).

Dosage & Administration

Anserine doses ranged from 50 mg/day to 2,000 mg/day, administered orally via capsules or functional foods. Supplementation durations spanned 4–12 weeks, with most trials using daily divided doses. Some studies combined Anserine with carnosine, another HCD, at varying ratios.

Results & Efficacy

Depression: HCD supplementation reduced depressive symptoms by 0.62 standard deviations (SMD = -0.62, 95% CI: -0.89 to -0.35, p < 0.001; I² = 68% heterogeneity).
Quality of Life: Significant improvements in physical and mental health domains (SMD = 0.48, 95% CI: 0.21–0.75, p = 0.0007; I² = 52% heterogeneity).
Subgroup analysis confirmed similar efficacy for Anserine and carnosine. Effects were sustained in sensitivity analyses excluding low-quality trials.

Limitations

High heterogeneity across studies (I² > 50%), reflecting variability in dosages, populations, and outcome measures.
Most trials were conducted in Asia or Europe, limiting generalizability to other demographics.
Short follow-up durations (≤12 weeks) preclude conclusions about long-term efficacy or safety.
Potential publication bias, as only published RCTs were included.
Mechanisms of action remain unclear, and optimal dosing strategies require further investigation.

Clinical Relevance

Anserine supplementation (50–2,000 mg/day) may offer a safe, evidence-based option for individuals seeking to improve depressive symptoms or enhance quality of life. However, variability in trial designs suggests caution in interpreting results until larger, standardized RCTs are conducted. Users should consult healthcare providers to assess suitability alongside existing treatments, particularly given the lack of long-term safety data. The findings support Anserine’s potential as a complementary intervention for mental health, though individual responses may vary.

Note: This analysis focuses on Anserine as a key HCD component; the study also included carnosine, which showed comparable effects.

Study URL

Anserine for Depression? New Study Shows Promise