Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is essential for red blood cell formation, nerve function, DNA production, and cell metabolism. While common in animal-based products like fish, meat, and dairy, vegetarians and vegans may be at risk of deficiency. Those with digestion issues or older adults are also susceptible. Untreated, a deficiency can lead to health issues, including symptoms resembling dementia.
Vitamin B12 Deficiency and Dementia
Vitamin B12 deficiency can cause cognitive decline resembling Alzheimer’s. Symptoms include memory loss, agitation, and behavior changes. It’s important to differentiate between the two as B12 deficiency is reversible while dementia is not. Additional symptoms of low B12 include:
- Fatigue
- Weakness
- Poor balance
- Weight loss
- Constipation
- Sore tongue or mouth
- Tingling or numbness in hands or feet
- Depression
- Anemia
- Low blood pressure
- Incontinence
Causes of B12 Deficiency
Various factors can lead to B12 deficiency, often linked to digestive disorders hindering nutrient absorption. Conditions like celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, pernicious anemia, alcoholism, and poor diets can contribute. Age is also a risk factor due to decreased B12 absorption capability with age.
Evaluating symptoms for dementia or B12 deficiency can be done through a simple blood test. If deficient, treatment typically involves B12 supplements through oral or injection methods, with regular blood tests to monitor progress and adjust doses as necessary.
Food Options to Prevent B12 Deficiency
Preventing B12 deficiency can be achieved by consuming foods rich in this vitamin, such as:
- Liver
- Beef
- Clams
- Mussels
- Atlantic mackerel
- Alaska king crab
- Wild rainbow trout
- Fortified cereals
- Fortified non-dairy milk
- Nutritional yeast
Should You Take Vitamin B12 Supplements?
Consulting a healthcare provider before supplementing B12 is recommended, as excessive intake may not offer added benefits. While B12 supplementation doesn’t prevent Alzheimer’s, maintaining a balanced diet rich in B12 promotes brain health and may alleviate symptoms in cases of Alzheimer’s and B12 deficiency co-occurrence.
How is Alzheimer’s Disease Treated?
Alzheimer’s has no cure, but treatment focuses on symptom management and slowing down disease progression. Therapies assist with behavioral symptoms, and early intervention is crucial to maintaining normal function for as long as possible.
How Can Family Members Help?
In addition to prescribed medications, managing Alzheimer’s behavioral changes can involve maintaining a familiar environment, avoiding confrontation during confusion or irritation, and engaging in social, physical, and mental activities to stimulate brain health and lower Alzheimer’s risk.
Ways to protect the brain from cognitive decline and lower Alzheimer’s risk:
- Staying socially active
- Eating a healthy diet rich in antioxidants
- Staying physically active
- Maintaining mental engagement through hobbies and activities
Continue reading: Massive Study Shows Vitamin D Supplements May Help Fend Off Dementia
Sources
- “Low Vitamin B12 Levels: An Underestimated Cause Of Minimal Cognitive Impairment And Dementia.” Cureus. Shazia Jatoi. February 2020
- “Is It Alzheimer’s Disease or Vitamin B12 Deficiency?” Very Well Health. Esther Heerema, MSW. April 5, 2022
- “Foods You Should Eat if You Have a B12 Deficiency.” WebMD. Keri Wiginton. January 16, 2023
- “Alzheimer’s Disease.” Cleveland Clinic. Keri Wiginton. December 10, 2022
