What is the link between choline and anxiety according to the UC Davis study?

The UC Davis study found that individuals with certain anxiety disorders had about 8% lower choline levels in brain regions that regulate emotions.

Can eating more choline cure anxiety?

Experts caution that the study does not prove low choline causes anxiety, and it's too early to recommend increased intake or supplements without further research.

What foods contain choline, as mentioned in the anxiety study?

Choline is found in foods like eggs, beef, chicken, fish, and soybeans.

Home / Health / Low Brain Choline Linked to Anxiety?

Low Brain Choline Linked to Anxiety?

12 Dec, 2025

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Summary

Anxiety sufferers show 8% lower choline levels in brain regions.
Choline deficiency may increase brain's stress response demand.
Experts caution against assuming low choline causes anxiety.

Recent findings indicate a possible connection between reduced choline levels in the brain and anxiety disorders. Scientists at UC Davis Health analyzed data from multiple studies, observing that individuals with specific anxiety disorders exhibited about 8% lower choline levels in brain regions crucial for emotional regulation. This suggests that the brain's heightened stress response in anxiety may deplete choline.

While the study authors propose that nutritional interventions, such as choline supplementation, could potentially aid in managing anxiety, independent clinicians and nutrition experts advise a cautious interpretation of these results. They stress that low choline levels may be a consequence of metabolic strain rather than a primary cause of anxiety disorders.

Experts underscore that anxiety is a complex condition influenced by multiple factors including genetics and life experiences. They recommend discussing any dietary changes or supplement use with a healthcare provider, as choline is essential for overall brain health, and most Americans do not meet the recommended daily intake.