Vitamin B12 and Folate Related to Cognitive Function

Researchers have discovered that vitamin B12 and folate are important for cognitive health in older adults. The elderly are at increased risk of cognitive dysfunction due to numerous causes, such as vascular abnormalities, protein deposition in the brain, free radical damage and atrophy of brain tissue. Previous research suggests that the amino acid homocysteine has neurotoxic effects and thus may play a role in cognitive decline. Vitamin B12 and folate have been shown to decrease homocysteine levels.

Researchers in this new study evaluated the serum vitamin B12 and folate levels in 127 subjects, who had a mean age of 65 and who had cognitive decline due to various causes, and 127 healthy controls. Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) and total cholesterol were also measured.

The results of the study showed that serum vitamin B12 and folate levels were significantly higher in the subjects with healthy cognitive function compared to the subjects with cognitive decline. Furthermore, serum TSH levels were lower in the subjects with cognitive decline.

The study authors concluded that serum vitamin B12 and folate levels were linked to cognitive function, and thus, B vitamin supplementation should be considered as a way to maintain cognitive health.

Reference:

Agarwal R, Chhillar N, Kushwaha S, Singh NK, Tripathi CB. Role of vitamin B(12), folate, and thyroid stimulating hormone in dementia: A hospital-based study in north Indian population. Ann Indian Acad Neurol. 2010 Oct;13(4):257-62.