We explored the impact of vitamin B12 on anxiety symptoms in adolescents. In a study involving outpatients aged 12 to 18 with anxiety or depressive symptoms, we measured the severity of their conditions and checked various health markers, including serum vitamin B12 and folate levels.
Our findings indicated that lower levels of vitamin B12 were associated with a higher risk of experiencing severe anxiety and depressive symptoms. Interestingly, we also observed that vitamin B12, folate, and total homocysteine levels were interconnected, suggesting that deficiencies in these vitamins might be related.
However, while we found these associations, the correlations between vitamin levels and anxiety symptoms were generally weak.
In summary, while vitamin B12 might play a role in anxiety severity, the relationships are complex and influenced by other factors. Overall, this study underscores the importance of considering nutritional factors in mental health, but we should be cautious not to overstate the benefits of vitamin B12 alone.