Low Vitamin B12 Linked to Brain Shrinkage

Research on 121 participants over the age of 65 has demonstrated that poor vitamin B12 function in the brain is associated with declining mental skills and a shrinking brain.

The study looked at various important markers of B12 metabolism and had the participants take a battery of mental tests. An average of four-and-a-half years later, MRI scans of the participants’ brains were taken to measure total brain volume and look for other signs of brain damage. 
Having markers for vitamin B12 deficiency was associated with having lower scores on the cognitive tests and smaller total brain volume.

“Our findings lend support for the contention that poor vitamin B12 status is a potential risk factor for brain atrophy and may contribute to cognitive impairment,” said Christine C. Tangney, lead author of the study.

It has long been known that vitamin B12 is needed for healthy brain function. It is somewhat surprising that a lack of B12 is so closely linked to a shrinking brain. The best form of vitamin B12 for brain health is called methylcobalamin, the exact form of vitamin B12 your body and brain uses for important biochemistry functions in your brain.  Ensure you are getting plenty of this form of B12 in your multiple vitamin or B complex.