B complex, minerals may improve physical and mental performance

CEBU, Philippines - Findings from a recent study concluded that supplementation with Vitamin B complex + minerals (Berocca®) can reduce stress, and significantly improve mental health and vigour as well as cognitive and physical performance in healthy individuals. The study, which was conducted by Professor Dr David Kennedy, Director of the Brain, Performance and Nutrition Research Center at the School of Psychology and Sport Science, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom, was recently presented to media representatives, pharmacists and health care professionals at expert panels held in Manila.

Various trials have substantiated the positive effects of a high-dose B-complex vitamin and mineral supplement on mental and physical performance in stressed individuals. To date, only a few studies have assessed the relationship between supplementation with nutritional products and psychological functioning in healthy group of people. The now-published placebo-controlled, double-blind study evaluated the cognitive and mood effects of Vitamin B complex + minerals (Berocca®) in healthy individuals.

As the demands of daily work and personal life have steadily and considerably increased for many individuals, mental strain and stress coupled with an insufficient supply of vitamins and minerals may lead to symptoms such as nervousness, lack of concentration or an increased susceptibility to infections. According to this recent and other studies, high-dose B-complex vitamin and mineral supplements like Berocca® can significantly enhance mental performance. “The results of the study directly confirm previous findings,” says Professor Kennedy, who is an expert on the relationship between supplementation with vitamins and minerals and psychological functioning. “Taken together, the overall outcome suggests that augmenting vitamin and mineral levels in healthy, normal populations may provide beneficial effects in terms of brain function.”

Participants of the study were 215 healthy, full-time employed males between 30 and 55 years of age who received either Vitamin B complex + minerals (Berocca®) effervescent tablet or placebo for 33 consecutive days. Subjects treated with Vitamin B complex + minerals (Berocca®) showed a considerable reduction of stress and nervousness. In addition, intake of Vitamin B complex + minerals (Berocca®) also led to an enhanced power of concentration, vigour and stamina. The methods used to assess the effects of the high-dose B-complex vitamin and mineral supplement are widely recognized standard methods employed in psychology including computerized serial subtractions tasks such as Serial Threes and Serial Sevens, which require attentional and arithmetic resources.

Bayer HealthCare Consumer Care has a long history as a leader in the manufacture of a broad range of healthcare products, including nutritional products that are based on sound science and are consistent with the recommendations of several authoritative bodies in various geographies. The company is committed to providing multivitamins that do more to address individuals’ nutritional needs throughout their lives. Combined with other healthy lifestyle measures, multivitamins and other dietary supplements can play an important role in promoting good health.

The health of our consumers is our top priority. Multivitamins and minerals are recommended as a supplement for nutritional support. They are not recommended as a substitute for proper sleep habits, diet or nutrition.