A shocking new study has revealed even “normal” amount of Vitamin B12 in older adults can cause cognitive decline and brain damage. The study suggest people had slower thinking speeds and increased brain lesions, which are associated with dementia.
Vitamin B12 is essential for making DNA, producing red blood cells, and maintaining healthy nerve function. The nutrient is also crucial for brain health and it helps to protect neurons and support cognitive function.
It is noteworthy that B12 deficiency is also associated with cognitive impairment, memory loss, dementia, and psychosis.
The current study was conducted by researchers at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), examined 231 healthy adults over the age of 70. All participants had B12 levels within the normal range, averaging 414.8 pmol/L—well above the U.S. minimum of 148 pmol/L. Despite this, those with lower B12 levels showed signs of brain decline.
With the help MRI scan, the researchers found that more lesions in the brain’s white matter, which are linked to cognitive decline and an increased risk of dementia or stroke. The researchers also observed that even when B12 levels are considered “normal,” they might not be optimal for brain health.
Dr Ari J. Green, senior author of the study and a professor at UCSF, believes current B12 recommendations may need to be revised. He explains that past studies may have overlooked subtle brain-related effects of lower B12 levels.
“Many people with ‘normal’ B12 levels may still be at risk for cognitive decline,” Dr Green said as quoted by Times Now. “We need to consider new ways of defining B12 deficiency by incorporating functional biomarkers to identify early signs of cognitive problems before they become serious.”
The study’s findings suggest that the definition of a healthy B12 level might not be sufficient for preventing brain decline, particularly in older adults. While this study focused on older adults, researchers believe the impact of lower B12 levels could affect more people.
The findings of the study were published in the Annals of Neurology recently.