B-group vitamins (B6, B12, folate) are cofactors in serotonin and GABA synthesis; their deficiency increases neuronal excitability and interferes with sleep.
The review states that B-group vitamins (B6, B12, folate) act as cofactors in the synthesis of serotonin and GABA. A lack of these vitamins increases neuronal excitability and disrupts sleep. No specific effect sizes or numerical data are provided.
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B-group vitamins (B6, B12, folate) are cofactors in serotonin and GABA synthesis; their deficiency increases neuronal excitability and interferes with sleep. The current body of evidence comprises 1 study. EvidenceHub rates the overall confidence at 32/100 (low).
The Claim
B-group vitamins (B6, B12, folate) are cofactors in serotonin and GABA synthesis; their deficiency increases neuronal excitability and interferes with sleep.
This conclusion is most relevant to: General population (narrative review of existing evidence).
What the Research Shows
The conclusion draws on 1 linked study. Highlights from the cited literature:
- ▸Nutritional modulators of sleep: A narrative review of vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and their neurobiological and chronoepigenetic mechanisms. (Chronobiology international, 2026) —
How It Works
The proposed biological pathway:
- ▸B-group vitamins (B6, B12, folate) act as cofactors in enzymatic pathways
- ▸These pathways synthesize serotonin and GABA
- ▸Deficiency reduces serotonin and GABA levels
- ▸Result: Increased neuronal excitability and sleep disruption
Who Might Benefit
Evidence fit by population:
- ▸General population (narrative review of existing evidence)
Recommended Dose
N/A
Limitations & Caveats
Important context when interpreting this evidence:
- ▸Narrative review design, not a systematic review or meta-analysis
- ▸No specific effect sizes or quantitative data reported for this claim
Frequently Asked Questions
Which B vitamins are involved in sleep regulation?▼
Vitamin B6, B12, and folate are identified as cofactors in serotonin and GABA synthesis, which are important for sleep.
How do B-group vitamin deficiencies affect sleep?▼
Deficiencies increase neuronal excitability and interfere with sleep, likely due to reduced serotonin and GABA production.
Is there a recommended dose of B vitamins for sleep?▼
No specific dose is recommended in this review; it only discusses the role of these vitamins as cofactors.
What is the mechanism linking B vitamins to sleep?▼
B vitamins are cofactors for enzymes that synthesize serotonin and GABA, neurotransmitters that promote sleep and reduce neuronal excitability.
References
- 1.Khosropanah A, Hosseini SA, Keshavarz A. “Nutritional modulators of sleep: A narrative review of vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and their neurobiological and chronoepigenetic mechanisms..” Chronobiology international, 2026. PMID: 41992896 DOI: 10.1080/07420528.2026.2648011