Panic and anxiety are normal emotions that we all experience occasionally. When anxiety becomes chronic, and panic turns into full-blown panic attacks, this becomes a major health problem. It’s well-known that vitamin and mineral deficiencies can lead to various health problems, but did you know that they can also be linked to anxiety and panic disorders?
Low Serum Vitamin B6 and Iron Could Contribute to Anxiety and Panic Disorders
According to a 2013 study done by Okayama University in Japan, low serum concentrations of vitamin B6 and iron are related to panic attacks and anxiety. While the research is older, it is still relevant. The researchers looked at data from just 21 patients who had been admitted to the hospital. Ten were patients with panic attacks, and 11 had hyperventilation attacks. When they looked at the patient’s blood work, they found that their levels of vitamin B6 and iron were significantly lower than that of the control group. The control group consisted of healthy individuals. (1)
Why Does B6 and Iron Affect Anxiety and Panic Disorders?
The researchers believe that this is because of serotonin’s role in anxiety disorders. Serotonin is synthesized from tryptophan during the synthesis of serotonin in the brain. Vitamin B6 plays the role of coenzyme for tryptophan. Iron is a cofactor for aromatic L-amino acid decarboxylase that participates in the production of serotonin. If either of these is low, but especially if both of them are, your body will ultimately have trouble producing serotonin.
It’s important to note that the researchers didn’t examine whether or not anxiety and panic disorders are caused by low serotonin levels. They simply found a link between the two. A lot more research will be needed before scientists can say with certainty what causes these mental health conditions.
