A longitudinal study published in Neurology has found that higher intake of B vitamins—particularly B6, B9 (folate), and B12—is associated with slower cognitive decline in older adults. Researchers followed 2,500 participants aged 60 and above for seven years, tracking their dietary habits and cognitive performance. Those with the highest B vitamin intake showed a 40% reduction in memory loss compared to those with the lowest intake.
Dr. Martha Morris, the study’s lead author, explained that B vitamins play a key role in reducing homocysteine, an amino acid linked to brain atrophy and Alzheimer’s disease. “Elevated homocysteine damages blood vessels and neurons, but B vitamins help convert it into harmless byproducts,” she said. The findings support the idea that nutritional interventions could delay or prevent dementia onset.
Despite these promising results, experts warn against self-supplementation without medical supervision, as excessive B12 intake can mask other deficiencies and interact with medications. Future research will explore whether B vitamin supplementation in midlife can provide long-term cognitive protection.
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