CORRELATION BETWEEN SERUM MICRONUTRIENTS AND PSYCHOLOGICAL WELLBEING IN PHASE 1ST MBBS STUDENTS

Introduction/Background: There is limited literature assessing the combined biochemical and psychological profile of MBBS students. This study seeks to fill that gap by aims to assess the correlation between serum micronutrient levels (magnesium, iron, vit D3, B12, and hemoglobin) and psychological distress (e.g., depression, anxiety, stress) in Phase 1st MBBS students. Materials and Method: This cross-sectional study was conducted after taking informed consent from the 100 participants (phase 1st MBBS students) a questionnaire was given to evaluate their psychological wellbeing and 5ml venous blood sample was collected in plain tube, analysed for serum micronutrients like magnesium, Iron, Vit D3, B12 and Hemoglobin. Results and conclusion: The mean ± SD values of magnesium were 1.79 ±0.53, iron was 83.20± 29.62, Vit D3 was 14.64 ± 6.58, Vit B12 was 220.77±45.30 and Hemoglobin was 11.93 ±2.65.  Psycological state was evaluated using mental illness assessment score ranging from 0 to 26.  Students with low serum levels of iron, Vit B12 and Hemoglobin were presented with increased symptoms of depression, anxiety, fatigue, impaired concentration and sleep. Deficiency in magnesium were presented with mood changes and cognitive performance. Deficiency in Vit D3 were presented with mood changes, fatigue and loss of interest in their hobbies. Because of this psychological distress showing effect on academic attendance. This study was showing a strong positive correlation between attendance and psychological score (r = 0.90), with significantly reduced attendance in the severe group (76.77%) compared to the normal group (94.93%). This study will be helpful to evaluate the mental status and in correcting their nutritional deficiency by supplementation of micronutrients and also useful in improving their academic performance.