Vitamin B6 May Reduce Anxiety and Depression

Scientists at the University have found that vitamin B6 can reduce anxiety and depression.

Researchers have found that vitamin B6 promotes the production of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which plays a key role in preventing brain fatigue. GABA has a calming effect on the nervous system, blocking the transmission of excessive nerve impulses. New experiments have shown that vitamin B6 can actually improve mental status by affecting the chemical processes in the brain.

However, to be beneficial, substantial doses of vitamin are required, comparable to those in supplements. In the study, researchers looked at more than 300 students, many of whom suffered from anxiety or depression. One group received 100 mg of vitamin B6 daily, 70 times the recommended daily allowance, another group received 1 mg of vitamin B12, 416 times the norm, and the third group received placebo.

The results of the study showed that the level of anxiety decreased by 13% in the participants taking vitamin B6, whereas in the placebo group the rate was 4.8%, and in the B12 group it was 6.1%. Visual function tests have also confirmed elevated GABA levels in those taking vitamin B6.

Depression levels increased slightly in the placebo group, while they decreased in the B6 group and remained unchanged in the B12 group. Although the effects of vitamin B6 were less significant than those of antidepressants, scientists believe that even small doses of this vitamin from food can have a positive impact on mental health.

Sources of vitamin B6 include tuna, chickpeas, beef, turkey, herbs, oranges and bananas. Previous studies have linked high intake of B vitamins to reduced stress levels, but this study is the first to show which B vitamin is responsible for improved mental status.