Vitamin D, B2, B9 Deficiencies Linked to Cognitive Decline in Older Adults: ICMR-NIN Study

A new study by the ICMR-National Institute of Nutrition (NIN) in Hyderabad has found that more than one in three older adults show signs of mild cognitive impairment (MCI), with a strong association between the condition and deficiencies in key vitamins.

The research, published in the international journal Nutrients, assessed 184 adults aged 55 to 85 years. Cognitive function was evaluated 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 such as beta-amyloid, total tau, neurofilament light chain, and brain-derived neurotrophic factor.

Results showed that 36.4% of participants had MCI — an intermediate stage between normal ageing and dementia where memory and thinking changes are measurable but daily independence is retained. Those with MCI had lower blood levels of several micronutrients, with deficiencies in vitamins D, B2, and B9 particularly prevalent.

The affected group also had significantly higher blood glucose levels and elevated systolic blood pressure. Conversely, higher levels of vitamins, especially 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 further studies are needed to establish causality and assess the impact of supplementation. However, he stressed that the findings underscore the value of early nutritional assessment and timely interventions as part of healthy ageing strategies.

ICMR-NIN Director Bharati Kulkarni added that healthy ageing requires attention not only to disease management but also to nutritional well-being, highlighting the importance of maintaining adequate micronutrient status among older adults to support cognitive health.