American Scientists Link Choline Deficiency to Higher Anxiety Levels

A new scientific study conducted by researchers at the University of California, Davis, in the United States has confirmed a strong association between a deficiency of the vital brain nutrient choline and increased rates of anxiety and related disorders.

Choline is an essential dietary component that plays a key role in supporting cell membrane functions, memory, mood regulation, and muscle control. The body relies primarily on external sources to obtain it, such as eggs, dairy products, and fish.

To carry out the study, a team led by Professor Richard Maddock conducted an in-depth analysis of data from 25 different studies, covering a total of 370 patients diagnosed with anxiety disorders.

Using an advanced, non-invasive imaging technique (proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy), the researchers were able to examine the chemical composition of brain tissue.

The findings revealed a significant and consistent decrease in choline levels among participants suffering from panic disorder and generalized anxiety disorder, showing that the choline level in their brains was about 8% lower than that of healthy individuals.

The researchers warned that this decrease, even if it appears small, could have important functional effects on brain activity. Although the discovery opens new perspectives for understanding the mechanisms underlying anxiety, the scientists stressed the importance of maintaining a balanced, choline-rich diet. However, they noted that the study does not provide definitive evidence that dietary supplements can directly treat anxiety.