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Plasma vitamin profiles and their associations with metabolic health and mental wellbeing in midlife Asian women
Vitamins are crucial for various metabolic pathways that underpin energy metabolism and neuronal function, influencing overall health and well-being. This study investigates the associations between vitamin levels and health outcomes, including metabolic, mental, and muscle health, specifically among Asian women transitioning into midlife. Conducted within the Growing Up in Singapore Towards Healthy Outcomes (GUSTO) cohort, the study involved 662 women at a mean age of 39.9 years.
Vitamin concentrations were quantified through advanced techniques such as liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry and microbiological assays. Health metrics included body mass index (BMI), blood pressure, glucose levels, and lipid profiles, alongside assessments of mental well-being using standardized questionnaires.
Key findings indicated that thiamine monophosphate, pyridoxal-5’-phosphate, and cholecalciferol were positively correlated with favorable metabolic outcomes, evidenced by lower fasting insulin and higher HDL-cholesterol levels, alongside reduced metabolic syndrome (MetS) scores. Conversely, certain vitamins (all-trans retinol, α-tocopherol, γ-tocopherol, and phylloquinone) were positively linked to increased MetS scores, although these associations diminished when triglyceride levels were considered. Folate was associated with decreased perceived stress levels. Notably, the inverse associations of B-vitamins and cholecalciferol with MetS scores were significant only in women with a BMI of 23 kg/m² or higher.
Overall, the analysis underscores significant relationships between plasma vitamin levels and both metabolic and mental health outcomes among the studied population, highlighting the importance of nutritional status during midlife transitions. [NPID: Vitamins, women, folate, energy metabolism, stress]
Year: 2026
