ICMR-NIN study finds vitamin deficiency linked to cognitive decline

A study by the ICMR-National Institute of Nutrition (NIN) in Hyderabad has found that more than one in three older adults surveyed show signs of mild cognitive impairment (MCI), with deficiencies in key vitamins strongly associated with the condition. The study, published in the journal Nutrients, examined 184 adults aged 55 to 85 from the city. Cognitive function was assessed using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment, and blood samples were analysed for vitamins A, D, B1, B2, B6, B9 and B12.

The study found that 36.4% of participants had MCI. Those with MCI had lower blood levels of vitamins D, B1, B2, B6, B9 and B12, with deficiencies in vitamins D, B2 and B9 particularly common. The MCI group also had significantly higher blood glucose levels and higher systolic blood pressure. In contrast, higher levels of vitamins D and B6 were associated with better cognitive performance.

NIN director Bharati Kulkarni said maintaining adequate micronutrient status and strengthening early nutritional assessment could help support cognitive health in older adults. The researchers noted that further studies are needed to establish whether correcting vitamin deficiencies can prevent or reduce cognitive decline.