Panic and anxiety are typical emotions that everyone experiences on times. When anxiety becomes chronic and panic attacks become severe, it becomes a serious health issue. Vitamin and mineral deficiencies are well recognized to cause a variety of health issues, but did you know they can also be associated with anxiety and panic disorders?

Low serum vitamin B6 and iron levels may contribute to anxiety and panic disorders. According to a 2013 study conducted by Okayama University in Japan, low serum levels of vitamin B6 and iron are associated with panic attacks and anxiety. Although the research is old, it is still important. The researchers examined data from only 21 people who were hospitalized to the hospital.

Ten individuals suffered from panic episodes, while 11 experienced hyperventilation crises. When they examined the patients’ blood work, they discovered that their levels of vitamin B6 and iron were much lower than those in the control group. The control group consisted of healthy people. The researchers believe this is due to serotonin’s involvement in anxiety disorders.

During the brain’s serotonin production, tryptophan is converted into serotonin. Vitamin B6 serves as a coenzyme for tryptophan. Iron is a cofactor for aromatic L-amino acid decarboxylase, which aids in the synthesis of serotonin. If either of these is low, especially if both are, your body will eventually have difficulty making serotonin.

It is worth noting that the researchers did not investigate whether anxiety and panic disorders are caused by low serotonin levels. They just identified a relationship between the two. A lot more research will be required.