ICMR-NIN study links vitamin deficiencies to cognitive decline in elderly
A study by the ICMR-National Institute of Nutrition in Hyderabad found that over one-third of surveyed elderly adults suffer from mild cognitive impairment linked to vitamin deficiencies. Researchers emphasized that early nutritional intervention, particularly regarding vitamins D, B2, and B9, may help preserve brain health.
Why it matters
As populations age, identifying modifiable risk factors like nutrition for cognitive decline is critical for public health policy.
More than one in three older adults surveyed in a Hyderabad-based study showed signs of mild cognitive impairment, with researchers finding a strong association between cognitive decline and deficiencies in several key vitamins.
The findings by scientists at the ICMR-National Institute of Nutrition (NIN) suggest that better nutritional status may play an important role in preserving brain health as people age. Older adults with mild cognitive impairment were more likely to have deficiencies in several micronutrients, particularly vitamins D, B2 and B9, highlighting the potential role of nutrition in maintaining brain health during ageing.
Published in the international journal ‘ Nutrients’ , the study - Neuronal Biomarkers and Micronutrient Status in Adults with Mild Cognitive Impairment, also identified significant associations between blood levels of essential vitamins, neuronal biomarkers and cognitive performance. The findings underscore the importance of early nutritional assessment and intervention among older adults at risk of cognitive decline.
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