Authors:
Herbison, C. E.; Hickling, S.; Allen, K. L.; O'Sullivan, T. A.; Robinson, M.; Bremner, A. P.; Huang, R. C.; Beilin, L. J.; Mori, T. A.; Oddy, W. H.
Authors notes:
Preventive Medicine. 2012;55(6):634-8.
Keywords:
Adolescent, B-vitamin, Behaviour, BMI, Externalising, FFQ, Internalising, Kcal, Mental health, Nutrition, Vitamin, YSR
Abstract:
The current prevalence of mental health problems in Western populations is approximately 20% and half of all adult mental health disorders are estimated to originate in adolescence.
Diet plays an important role in modulating psychological wellbeing and B-vitamins are vital for the synthesis of neurotransmitters such as serotonin. We aimed to examine the relationship between B-group vitamins and adolescent mental health and behaviour.
This is a cross-sectional analysis of the West Australian Pregnancy Cohort (Raine) Study. The 17-year follow-up included collection of a food frequency questionnaire allowing B-vitamin intake calculation. Mental health was assessed using the Youth Self Report (YSR) which measures total, internalising (withdrawn/depressed) and externalising (aggressive/delinquent) behaviour scores.
Multiple linear regression was used to analyse associations between B-vitamins and mental health with adjustment for relevant confounders (n=709).
Lower intake of vitamins B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, and folate was associated with higher externalising behaviour scores (p≤ 0.05). Reduced intake of vitamin B6 and folate was associated with higher internalising behaviour scores (p≤ 0.05).
Poor nutrition may contribute to the pathogenesis of mental health problems in adolescence. The role of B-vitamins requires further investigation in randomised controlled trials.