Micronutrient Deficiencies and Mental Disorders: Exploring the Association
DOI:
10.29303/jbt.v26i4.13579Published:
2026-10-14Downloads
Abstract
Micronutrienst play an impportante role in maintaining brain function through ther involvement in neurotransmitter synthesis, neuroplasticity, antioxidant defense, and inflammatory regulation. Deficiencies of micronutrients such as vitamin D, B vitamins, magnesium, zinc, iron, and selenium have been associated with various mental disorders, including depression, anxiety, and cognitive impairment. This review aims to explore the association between micronutrient deficiencies and mental disorders and to describe the potential biological underlying this relationship. The reviewed literature suggests that micronutrient deficiencies may contribute to impaired neurotransmitter function, oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, and dysregulation of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis. However, evidence regarding supplementation and its clinical effects remains variable, and causal relationships have not been consistently established. Micronutrient status is an important and potentially modifiable aspect of mental health that may interact with multiple biological pathways involved in psychiatric disorders. Assessment of nutritional status may complement conventional approaches to mental healthcare, particularly in individuals at risk of nutritional deficiencies. Further well-designed longitudinal and clinical studies are needed to clarify causal relationships and determine the effectiveness of targeted nutritional interventions.
Keywords:
Micronutrient deficiencies Mental disorders Mental health Nutritional psychiatryReferences
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