Research
Micronutrients & recovery
Vitamin D and 4-pyridoxic acid (Vitamin B6 metabolite) levels are significantly lower in the luteal and periovulatory phases, potentially increasing susceptibility to mood disorders like PMS by limiting neurotransmitter synthesis precursors.
Vitamin D and Vitamin B6 (as 4-pyridoxic acid) levels drop during the luteal and periovulatory phases. Since these vitamins are cofactors for neurotransmitter synthesis (serotonin, GABA), this drop may contribute to PMS/PMDD symptoms. Ensuring adequate intake of these nutrients, particularly during the second half of the cycle, may support mental health.
GoodQualifiesHIGH confidence
Vitamin D (25-OH vitamin D) showed significant decreases in L-F, L-M and O-M with L-M and O-M and met the multiple testing threshold q < 0.20... Pyridoxic acid also showed an elevation in the menstrual compared to the periovulatory phases (q < 0.20)... The periovulatory reduction in 4-pyridoxic acid may lead to the cystathionine depletion observed in the luteal phase as B6 is a cofactor for the cystathione-β−synthase conversion to cystationine
Why this rating
Strong observational data with FDR correction, linking specific vitamins to phase changes.
Source
Menstrual cycle rhythmicity: metabolic patterns in healthy women
Colleen Fogarty Draper et al. · Scientific Reports · 2018
cohort · n=34Cited 216×
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