An increased intake of the vitamins B6 and B12 may ward off depression, say scientists.

Researchers tracked 3,503 older adults for up to 12 years. The subjects were free of depression at the study onset. Over the course of the trial 11% to 14% of subjects developed depression. Every 10-microgram (mg) increase in daily B6 and B12 vitamins from food or supplements was associated with a 2% lower risk of depression. On the other hand, no link was evident between folate intake and the risk of depression. These findings held after adjustment for age, sex, race, education, income, and antidepressant medication use.

“Our results support the hypotheses that high total intakes of vitamins B-6 and B-12 are protective of depressive symptoms over time in community-residing older adults,” write the study’s authors.

AJCN – June 2, 2010 ;Epub.
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