Micronutrients can help reduce irritability in unmedicated teens: Study
A new study suggests that taking a daily mix of vitamins and minerals (micronutrients) can noticeably reduce irritability in unmedicated teens.
Researchers studied 132 adolescents aged 12 to 17 with moderate to severe irritability, giving half micronutrient capsules and the other half a placebo for eight weeks.
Teens on micronutrients showed clear improvements in mood
Teens who took micronutrients showed clear improvements in mood and emotional control compared to those on placebo.
The biggest effects were seen in those diagnosed with disruptive mood dysregulation disorder (DMDD): about 64% responded well to the treatment versus just 12.5% on placebo.
Parents also noticed better behavior, and many teens reported feeling less stressed and having a better quality of life.
Treatment worked especially well for teens from lower-income backgrounds
The main side effect was mild diarrhea (more common with micronutrients but usually resolved easily), and fewer than one in 10 had trouble swallowing pills.
The treatment worked especially well for teens from lower-income backgrounds.
The study also included a high proportion of Maori participants and was conducted remotely.