Vitamin B could help with memory problems, says research
Published 13 September 2011
Taking vitamin B could delay the progression of cognitive decline, according to two studies presented at the British Science Festival in Bradford today (Tuesday 13 September).
Researchers at the University of Oxford looked at people with mild cognitive impairment - 168 people in the first study and 266 in the second. Participants took vitamin B, and the scientists measured any changes in their cognitive function. The research found that vitamin B appeared to slow cognitive decline in those taking part in the studies.
Alzheimer's Society comment:
Professor Robin Jacoby'We all know it's important to get enough vitamins, and these interesting studies add weight to the argument that vitamin B is good for our brains. However, people shouldn't rush out and empty the shelves of vitamin B tablets. More research is needed to establish whether it has benefits for people without existing memory problems, and if it could prevent dementia.
The best way to reduce your risk of dementia is to take regular exercise and eat a healthy diet with plenty of fruit and vegetables. It's also important to get your blood pressure and cholesterol checked regularly.'
Research author and Alzheimer's Society trustee
Research Reference: Smith, Jacoby et al, 'Homocysteine-Lowering by B Vitamins Slows the Rate of Accelerated Brain Atrophy in Mild Cognitive Impairment: A Randomized Controlled Trial', published on 8 September 2010, in PLoS ONE.
de Jager, Jacoby et al, 'Cognitive and clinical outcomes of homocysteine-lowering B-vitamin treatment in mild cognitive impairment: a randomized controlled trial', International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry, 2011.
