Vitamin deficiencies linked to memory decline in older adults, ICMR study finds

More than one in three older adults surveyed in Hyderabad showed signs of mild cognitive impairment (MCI), with researchers finding a strong association between cognitive decline and deficiencies in several key vitamins. The findings come from a study by the ICMR-National Institute of Nutrition (NIN), published in the international journal Nutrients.

Mild cognitive impairment is considered an intermediate stage between normal ageing and dementia. Individuals with MCI experience measurable changes in memory and thinking abilities but can still perform their daily activities independently. The study, titled 'Neuronal Biomarkers and Micronutrient Status in Adults with Mild Cognitive Impairment,' highlights the potential role of nutrition in preserving brain health during ageing.

The community-based cross-sectional study involved 184 adults aged 55 to 85 years from Hyderabad. Cognitive function was assessed using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), while blood samples were analysed for vitamins A, D, B1, B2, B6, B9 and B12. Researchers also measured neuronal biomarkers, including beta-amyloid, total tau, neurofilament light chain and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). Anthropometric measurements, blood pressure, blood glucose levels and other biochemical parameters were evaluated to identify factors associated with early cognitive impairment.

The study found that 36.4% of participants had mild cognitive impairment. Affected individuals had lower blood levels of several micronutrients, including vitamins D, B1, B2, B6, B9 and B12. Deficiencies in vitamins D, B2 and B9 were particularly more prevalent among the MCI group. Participants with MCI also had significantly higher blood glucose levels and elevated systolic blood pressure. In contrast, higher levels of vitamins, especially vitamins D and B6, were associated with better cognitive performance.

G. Bhanuprakash Reddy, Scientist and Head of the Biochemistry Division at ICMR-NIN, who led the research, said, “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.”

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 study underscores that nutritional status may be a modifiable factor in cognitive decline. Experts say that while these findings are observational and do not prove cause and effect, they reinforce the need for routine screening of vitamin levels in older adults, especially those showing early signs of memory problems. Maintaining adequate levels of vitamins D, B2 and B9 through diet or supplementation could potentially delay or mitigate cognitive decline, though further trials are needed to confirm this.

The findings also add to a growing body of evidence linking metabolic health—such as blood sugar and blood pressure—with brain function. The researchers recommend that public health policies prioritise nutritional assessments for the elderly, integrating them with existing healthcare programmes for non-communicable diseases.

As India's elderly population grows, the burden of cognitive disorders is expected to rise. Studies like this provide crucial insights into low-cost, non-invasive interventions that could support healthy ageing. For now, the message from ICMR-NIN is clear: paying attention to adequate nutrition, particularly essential vitamins, is not just about physical health—it may be vital for keeping the mind sharp in later years.