Almost every week there is a new natural supplement on the market claiming to hold back the hands of time and prevent the kind of mental “lapses” often associated with aging. But new research hints that the answer to aging could be as simple as just getting proper nutrition and maintaining healthy levels of common vitamins.
A new study by Oxford University in England suggests that plain-old vitamin B-12 could be the key to staving off memory loss associated with aging. The research, reported by the BBC, demonstrated a clear connection between brain shrinkage in the elderly, and low levels of Vitamin B-12. In fact, study participants who had lowered B-12 levels in their bloodstream were six times as likely to have experienced some brain shrinkage associated with aging.
The Oxford study focused on 107 elderly volunteers aged 61 through 87, and followed the participants over a period of five years. Related research has suggested that as many as 40% of all senior citizens are Vitamin B-12 deficient.
Oxford researchers have now begun trials to attempt to use B vitamins, and in particular vitamin B-12, to slow the rate of brain shrinkage that often occurs with aging. Oxford professor David Smith will head up the research, and notes that diet is a major factor in reducing the onset of age-related dementia.
Shrinking brain tissue of this strongly correlated with the onset of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. The current Oxford research suggests that it would be prudent for seniors to modify their diet to include more meat, fish and milk to raise vitamin B12 levels. Many individuals might also benefit from the vitamin supplements, especially those at greatest risk for Alzheimer’s.
B vitamins have long been associated with proper functioning of the nervous system, and more and more, researchers are discovering their importance to maintaining healthy brain tissue as well. Vitamin B-12 in particular could be an important key to reduce the risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s that is common when brain shrinkage occurs in older individuals.
Of course, other factors also play a role in memory and general brain function, including regular physical exercise, as well as mental exercise to keep the mental faculties sharp. Limiting alcohol intake and avoiding cigarettes are also important to keep the brain functioning properly, and reducing the risk of shrinkage.
For now, the research suggests that vitamin B-12, along with a healthy diet, regular physical and mental stimulation, could be the key to staying mentally young longer.
