Research shows that around 20 percent of British adults could be affected by a deficiency linked to cognitive decline and dementia.
Dr Newman-Beinart said: “B12 is vital for brain health and all of your brain’s processes, including memory and cognition.
“Researchers have found that the size of your brain may shrink when you become B12 deficient.”
Interestingly, further studies have suggested that taking B12 “may reduce the rate at which our brains shrink as we get older”.
Where would you find vitamin B12?
Yet, vitamin B12 is “notoriously hard to absorb”, said Dr Newman-Beinart.
Further impinging the ability to be sufficient in vitamin B12 is that our ability to absorb such vitamins tends to naturally diminish with age.
“When someone is deficient in vitamin B12, not enough red blood cells will be produced,” said Dr Newman-Beinart.
“This means that oxygen cannot be carried around the body properly.”
Consequently, a vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to problems with:
- Memory
- Vision
- Muscle weakness.
“Some of the key signs of B12 deficiency include fatigue, difficulty concentrating, mouth ulcers, pins and needles in hands and feet, low mood, and weakness,” said Dr Newman-Beinart.
Do seek medical advice if you are presenting with symptoms of a vitamin B12 deficiency.
How to get enough B12?
“I always recommend a good quality B12 spray,” said Dr Newman-Beinart.
“It is really easy to use and can be applied directly onto the inner cheek of the mouth.”
Making sure you are getting enough vitamins is only one way to minimise your risk of cognitive decline and dementia.
Dr Newman-Beinart pointed out that a healthy lifestyle is one of the best ways to protect your brain against the progressive disease.
A healthy lifestyle consists of a healthy diet, frequent exercise and social engagement.