Vitamin B12 Deficiency Decreases Cognitive Function

Cardiovascular disease, GI disorders and cognitive decline are three common disease states found in the United States. Vitamin B12 has an important role in cardiovascular health and maintaining cognitive function. This vitamin is an essential nutrient that is needed for proper red blood cell formation, neurological function and to maintain the functionality of the brain.

B12 deficiency is common in about 15 percent of the population. Some individuals have difficulty absorbing B12 from foods due to an insufficient amount of stomach acid required to release B12 from its bounded protein for full absorption. If this deficiency goes untreated, it leads to anemia, fatigue, weakness, constipation, loss of appetite and weight loss. The main causes of B12 deficiency include poor absorption from food by the intestine and dietary deficiency. The good news is that the deficiency is easy to replace with supplements, fortified foods and even injections, if necessary.

A recent study focused on the relationship between B12 deficiency and cognitive function. This study investigated the functional alterations in different regions of the brain due to the depletion of vitamin B12. Since previous research has shown that B12 deficiency is irreversible if it goes untreated, this study also examined the reversibility of the functional changes in the brain following B12 replacement therapy. Thirteen B12 deficient individuals participated in the study. Patients received 1000 ug of vitamin B12 after completing sensitivity testing with a neurological test battery for ten days followed by once a week for four weeks. These contributors underwent an MRI brain imaging test to analyze any functional alterations. Six of these patients also received an additional MRI after six weeks of replacement therapy. 

The results of this study indicated that B12 deficiency did indeed show altered brain functionality. Abnormality was found in the three brain regions that are associated with cognitive control. The participants who received replacement therapy did in fact show reversibility in functional damage and improved cognitive function.

Bottom Line: Fortified breakfast cereals, low-fat milk, tuna fish, salmon, yogurt, cheese, eggs and chicken are all great food sources containing B12. Incorporating some of these foods into your daily regimen can reduce your risk for cognitive decline with aging. If you are unsure if you have a B12 deficiency, check with your doctor to have your blood levels tested. Also, if you do not eat meat, are a vegetarian, follow a vegan dietary lifestyle or have any GI disorders you could benefit from enjoying foods fortified with B12 or adding oral supplements to your daily routine. Making simple changes in your diet can improve your cognitive function, increase your energy levels and lower your risk for heart disease.

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