B-vitamins and cognitive function - what is the evidence?

Nutrition and micronutrients such as B-vitamins influence both mental and physical performance. It is well established that even mild micronutrient deficiencies can lead to reduced cognitive and physical capabilities. This is corroborated by strong epidemiological evidence indicating that micronutrient status can affect cognitive function at all ages. However, intervention studies with single or restricted vitamin ranges have yielded mixed results. On the other hand trials with multivitamins suggest efficacy in terms of cognitive and psychological functioning. A high-dose vitamin B supplement (Berocca) is one of the rare vitamin and mineral supplements being supported by multiple double-blind, randomized and placebo-controlled clinical trials as outlined in this review. This neurotropic unique vitamin combination containing water-soluble vitamins of the B complex, vitamin C and the minerals calcium, magnesium and zinc is backed up by extensive scientific evidence showing positive effects of supplementation in terms of brain function and mental performance and improvement of some aspects of physical fitness or performance. Given that a large section of the population is unable or unwilling to eat an adequately balanced diet that would satisfy micronutrient requirements it seems that supplementation with multi-vitamins/minerals may be a useful and possibly necessary option to improve their mental and physical performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]