A new study just published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition shows that the essential functions of B12 vitamins have long-term effects on preventing cognitive decline.
The study, headed by Dr. Janine Walker of the Australian National University, found that daily, long-term supplementation of folic acid and vitamin B-12 could “promote improvement in cognitive functioning…particularly in immediate and delayed memory performance.”
One group of participants took 400 micrograms of folic acid and 100 micrograms of vitamin B-12 daily while a control group took a placebo.
The group who took B-vitamins “experienced significantly better memory function” than the control group.
The research team credits these results to the way the body uses B-vitamins—especially folic acid and B-12—to fight brain inflammation and ensure proper brain communications.
Well-Established Link Between the Functions of B12 and Brain Health
This link between the functions of B12 levels and brain health has long been recognized by science.
For example, in another study conducted at the University of Chicago, older people with low blood levels of B12 had lower scores on cognitive tests and smaller total brain volume. The study authors said vitamin B12 deficiency could put older adults for reduced thinking ability and higher risk for brain atrophy.
The study included 120 residents of Chicago who were over the age of 65.
Previous studies have also shown B vitamins to help offset cognitive decline, dementia, and Alzheimer’s disease. Supplementation with a biologically active form of the B-vitamin has important capabilities such as:
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• Preventing age-related brain shrinkage
• Preserving learning capacity
• Protecting memory functions
Experts recommend a daily regimen of B-vitamins, omega-3 fats, EPA, and DHA, to “dramatically lower the risk of memory loss and cognitive decline.”