The effects of an oral multivitamin combination with calcium, magnesium, and zinc on psychological well-being in healthy young male volunteers: a double-blind placebo-controlled trial

Abstract.

Rationale: Vitamin and mineral supplements may be associated with improved psychological status. Objective: The present study tested the effects of a multivitamin and mineral supplement (Berocca^®) on psychological well-being. Methods: In a double-blind randomised-control trial, 80 healthy male volunteers were assigned to either Berocca^® or placebo. Questionnaires measuring psychological state were completed and a blood sample taken to determine plasma zinc concentration on day 1 (pre-treatment) and again on day 28 (post-treatment), following 28 days of treatments, which were administered at a dosage of one tablet daily. At the end of the study, the acceptability of the treatment and participants' awareness of treatment condition were assessed, as was habitual dietary behaviour. Results: Relative to placebo, treatment with Berocca^® was associated with consistent and statistically significant reductions in anxiety and perceived stress. Participants in the Berocca^® group also tended to rate themselves as less tired and better able to concentrate following treatment. In addition, participants registered more somatic symptoms following placebo than following Berocca^®. These effects cannot be attributed to differences in the acceptability of the two treatments or to participants guessing what treatment they received. Conclusion: These findings demonstrate that Berocca^® significantly reduces anxiety and perceived stress.