A new study suggests that even the older adults with the lower level of vitamin B12 – within the general range – may experience cognitive decline and brain damage. Researchers found that these people had slow thinking speed and increased brain wounds, which are associated with dementia.

Why B12 matters for brain health

Vitamin B12 is necessary to create DNA, produce red blood cells and maintain healthy nerve function. It plays an important role in brain health, helps protect neurons and support cognitive function. Although it is well known that a severe deficiency in B12 can cause anemia and nervous problems, the study suggests that even a slightly low level can negatively affect the brain.

The findings of the study: The study of slow thinking and more brain lesions conducted by researchers at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), examined 231 healthy adults over 70 years of age. All participants had a level of B12 within the general limit, average 414.8 PMol/ L – above minimum of 148 PMol/ L. Despite this, people with low B12 levels showed symptoms of brain decline.

The major findings of the study include:

The low B12 participants had slow cognitive processing speed.

It took them longer to respond to visual stimuli, which suggests a slow brain function.

The MRI scan revealed more lesions in the brain’s white substance, which are associated with cognitive decline and increasing risk of dementia or stroke.

These results suggest that even when the level of B12 is considered “normal”, they may not be optimal to the health of the brain.

Should B12 guidelines be updated?

Senior writer of the study, Dr. A professor in Ari J Green and UCSF believes that the current B12 recommendations may be required to be modified. He explains that previous studies may have ignored the effects related to the subtle brain of low B12 levels.

Dr. “Many people with ‘general’ B12 levels may still be at risk for cognitive decline,” said Green. “We need to consider new ways to define B12 deficiency by incorporating functional biomarkers to identify initial signals of cognitive problems before becoming serious.”

The findings of the study suggest that the definition of a healthy B12 level may not be sufficient to prevent the decline of the brain, especially in older adults.

Who is at risk?

While this study focused on older adults, researchers believe that the impact of low B12 levels can increase to a larger group than earlier ideas.

Alexandra Budry-Richard, MSc, co-first writer from UCSF and University of Ottawa explained, “The level of low B12 can affect brain function as we have been felt. It is possible that many people know it. Can experience light cognitive effects without. “

As people’s age, their ability to absorb B12 decreases, causing old adults to become particularly weak. B12 is found naturally in animal-based foods such as meat, dairy and eggs, so vegetarian and vegetarian are also at risk of deficiency.

Should you take B12 supplements?

While more research is required, findings suggest that old adults with neurological symptoms – such as memory loss, slow thinking, or balance issues – B12 can benefit from completion, even if their levels are within the normal limit.

In addition to re-defining the deficiency of B12, doctors should consider the dose of B12 for older patients who experience neurological symptoms, “said Budry-Richard.

To maintain healthy B12 levels, experts recommend:

Eating a balanced diet with B12-rich foods such as eggs, fish and dairy.

B12, taking into account the supplements, especially for older adults, vegetarian and absorption issues.

Get regular blood tests to monitor B12 levels, especially for those who experience cognitive changes.

This study reflects the importance of B12 for the health of the brain, even in those who do not have a clear shortage.

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