Citation

Herbison CE, Hickling S, Allen KL, O'Sullivan TA, Robinson M, Bremner AP, Huang RC, Beilin LJ, Mori TA, Oddy WH. Prev. Med. 2012; 55(6): 634-638.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2012, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

10.1016/j.ypmed.2012.09.014

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

OBJECTIVE. 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.

METHODS. 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 Mental health was assessed using the Youth Self Report (YSR) which measures total, internalising (withdrawn/depressed) and externalising (aggressive/delinquent) behaviour scores.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).

RESULTS. Lower intake of vitamins B1. B2, 83, B5, B6, and folate was associated with higher externalising behaviour scores (p <= 0.05). Reduced intake of vitamin 136 and folate was associated with higher internalising behaviour scores (p <= 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS. 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. (C) 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. KW: Juvenile justice; Juvenile delinquency;