Vitamin Deficiencies Linked to Mild Cognitive Impairment in Seniors

A recent study conducted in Hyderabad has highlighted concerning findings regarding the cognitive health of older adults. Researchers at the Indian Council of Medical Research-National Institute of Nutrition found that nearly 36.4 per cent of participants aged 55 to 85 exhibited signs of mild cognitive impairment (MCI). This condition is characterised by the early stages of memory and thinking decline while individuals can still manage daily activities independently.

Among the 184 adults included in the study, a striking 72 per cent of those with MCI were identified as deficient in vitamin D. In contrast, 48 per cent of participants without MCI showcased similar deficiencies. Deficiencies in vitamins B2 and B9 were also significantly prevalent in the MCI group compared to those who were cognitively unaffected.

The researchers noted a concerning trend where lower blood levels across multiple vitamins, including B1, B6, B9, and B12, were more commonly observed in participants with cognitive impairment. Specifically, 39 per cent of the MCI group were deficient in more than two of the vitamins studied, while this figure stood at 19 per cent for those without MCI.

The association between higher levels of vitamins D, B6, and B9 and improved scores on the Montreal Cognitive Assessment was significant. Notably, vitamins D and B6 exhibited the strongest correlations with a lower likelihood of MCI. Biomarker analysis further established that participants with MCI had elevated levels of certain markers linked to neuronal injury and neurodegeneration. These include beta-amyloid, total tau, and neurofilament light chain, which are known to signal neuronal health deterioration. Additionally, the MCI group displayed higher glycated haemoglobin and systolic blood pressure, suggesting a connection to well-known risk factors for brain health.

Dr. Bharati Kulkarni, the director at the ICMR-NIN, emphasised, "Healthy ageing requires attention not only to disease management but also to nutritional well-being." Dr. G. Bhanuprakash Reddy, who led the research, called for further longitudinal studies and clinical trials to explore whether enhancing nutritional status could prevent or slow cognitive decline.

While the findings indicate important associations between vitamin deficiencies and cognitive health, the researchers cautioned that the study does not establish causation. They advocate considering nutritional status alongside blood pressure, blood sugar, and cognitive function as part of comprehensive discussions about healthy ageing.