ICMR-NIN Hyderabad Study Links Low Vitamin Levels to Cognitive Decline in Older Adults

A study conducted by researchers at the Hyderabad-based ICMR-National Institute of Nutrition (ICMR-NIN) has established an association between low vitamin levels and mild cognitive impairment in older adults. The research indicates that inadequate micronutrient intake may play a critical role in early cognitive decline.

The findings were detailed in a study titled ‘Neuronal Biomarkers and Micronutrient Status in Adults with Mild Cognitive Impairment’, published in the international journal Nutrients. The study examined participants aged between 55 and 85 years, finding that 36.4 per cent exhibited Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI), a condition marked by noticeable memory and thinking lapses while daily independent functioning remains intact.

According to the researchers, participants identified with MCI consistently demonstrated lower blood concentrations of essential micronutrients. Deficiencies in Vitamin D, Vitamin B2 (riboflavin), and Vitamin B9 (folate) were particularly common among the cognitive decline group, alongside notably higher rates of deficiency in Vitamins B1, B6, and B12.

Conversely, older adults who maintained adequate vitamin levels, specifically Vitamins D and B6, performed significantly better on structured thinking and memory assessments.

The research initiative was led by Dr G Bhanuprakash Reddy, Head of Biochemistry at NIN. The study team noted that while the current findings demonstrate a strong correlation between micronutrient levels and cognitive performance, further long-term clinical trials are currently underway to establish precise cause-and-effect relationships through targeted dietary supplementation.

Emphasising the broader health implications, Dr Bharati Kulkarni, Director of ICMR-NIN, stated that healthy ageing requires attention not only to disease management but also to nutritional well-being. She highlighted that maintaining adequate micronutrient status and strengthening early nutritional assessments are vital strategies to protect cognitive health in ageing populations.

The institute advised that diets incorporating leafy greens, whole grains, dairy, and lean proteins, combined with safe sun exposure for Vitamin D synthesis, can help support long-term cognitive health.