The effect of micronutrients supplement on geriatric cognitive function: The latest research progresses

Abstract

Geriatric ability to live independently will be severely impaired when mild cognitive impairments(MCI)eventually develop into dementia.Patients with dementia usually suffer from micronutrients deficiencies(MNDs). In turn, MNDs may accelerate cognitive decline based on disruption of one carbon metabolism, DNA damage repair, mitochondrial function and glucose, lipid and phospholipids metabolism which lead to the damage of neurotransmitter synthesis, myelination and synaptogenesis.Clinical evidences show that the oral supplementation of B-group vitamins(vitamin B6 10-25 mg/d, vitamin B120.025-0.500 mg/d and folate 0.4-2.0 mg/d)and specific micronutrients compounds for at least 3 months may improve overall cognitive function and short-term memory ability of the elderly.More double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized human intervention studies are still needed to evaluate effects of micronutrients supplementation on geriatric cognitive function and to determine the requirements, dosage and time of intervention. Key words: Micronutrient; Cognitive function