More than one in three older adults in a Hyderabad study showed signs of mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and researchers found strong links between cognitive decline and deficiencies in several key vitamins. The community-based study, led by scientists at the ICMR–National Institute of Nutrition (NIN) and published in the journal Nutrients on August 17, 2026, suggests that better micronutrient status may help preserve brain health with age.
The cross-sectional study assessed 184 adults aged 55 to 85. Cognitive function was measured using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), and blood samples were tested for vitamins A, D, B1, B2, B6, B9 (folate) and B12. Investigators also measured neuronal biomarkers including beta‑amyloid, total tau, neurofilament light chain and brain‑derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). Physical measures such as blood pressure, blood glucose and anthropometry were recorded.
Overall, 36.4% of participants met criteria for MCI. Those with MCI had lower blood levels of several micronutrients-notably vitamins D, B1, B2, B6, B9 and B12-with deficiencies in vitamins D, B2 and B9 especially common in the affected group. Higher concentrations of certain vitamins, particularly vitamin D and vitamin B6, were associated with better cognitive scores.
The study also found that participants with MCI tended to have higher blood glucose and elevated systolic blood pressure, underlining the interplay of metabolic and vascular factors with cognitive health. The measured neuronal biomarkers were analysed alongside vitamin levels to explore biological links between nutrition and brain function.
“While further studies and trials are needed to establish causality and assess the impact of nutrient supplementation, these findings underscore the value of early nutritional assessment and timely interventions as part of healthy ageing strategies,” said G. Bhanuprakash Reddy, Scientist and Head of the Biochemistry Division at ICMR‑NIN, who led the research. ICMR‑NIN Director Bharati Kulkarni added, “Healthy ageing requires attention not only to disease management but also to nutritional well‑being. Our findings highlight the importance of maintaining adequate micronutrient status and strengthening early nutritional assessment among older adults to support cognitive health and promote healthy ageing.”
The authors conclude that routine screening for micronutrient deficiencies and targeted nutritional interventions merit consideration in programmes aimed at preventing or slowing early cognitive decline, while randomized trials are required to determine whether supplementation can improve outcomes.
Original Source: https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Hyderabad/icmr-nin-study-links-vitamin-deficiencies-to-cognitive-decline-in-elderly/article71355975.ece
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Publish Date: 2026-08-17 17:35:00
