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Nutrient deficiencies in patients with psychiatric disorders – investigating how low levels of omega-3s, B vitamins and magnesium affect mental health conditions like depression, schizophrenia and bipolar disorder
This research investigates the correlation between nutritional deficiencies and psychiatric disorders, specifically depression, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder. Conducted at two tertiary care centers in Chattogram, Bangladesh, the cross-sectional study included 100 patients diagnosed with a specific condition over a one-year period. The findings revealed that deficiencies in omega-3 fatty acids, B vitamins, and magnesium were prevalent in 61%, 58%, and 47% of participants, respectively. Notably, deficiencies were most pronounced in patients with depression, where rates reached 72.9% for omega-3, 66.7% for B vitamins, and 50% for magnesium. Furthermore, patients with a longer illness duration (>5 years) exhibited even higher deficiency rates: 70.8% for omega-3 fatty acids, 79.2% for B vitamins, and 62.5% for magnesium. The study also found that individuals with these deficiencies experienced greater symptom severity, with mean scores of 26.5, 27.2, and 25.8 for omega-3, B vitamin, and magnesium deficiencies, respectively (p < 0.05). These results underscore the significant role of nutritional status in influencing mental health outcomes, particularly in individuals with prolonged psychiatric conditions. [NPID: Psychiatric, omega-3, B-vitamins, magnesium, depression, deficiency, schizophrenia]
Year: 2025
