According to a recent study consuming regularly micronutrient supplements cold benefit sufferers with mental illness.

University of Canterbury clinical psychologist Associate Professor Julia Rucklidge studied the effect of micronutrients on people having Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), there behaviour and mood patterns were studied. This disorder affects about three to five per cent of adults.

During her research which was spanned over an eight week period the participants were given a 36-ingredient micronutrient formula that contained vitamins, minerals and amino acids.

A significant improvement was seen in areas of hyperactivity/impulsivity, inattention, mood, anxiety and stress and the overall quality of life.

"Most of the individuals were in a moderate to severe depressed state at the commencement of the trial and at the end of the eight weeks the mean score on the depression measure fell in the normal nondepressed range," says Rucklidge.

Dr Rucklidge said that the micronutrient formula also had comparatively fewer side effects than other mood stabilisers and stimulants used.