Vitamin B 12 might prevent brain shrinkage

Brain shrinkage is common in people above 60, but neuroscientists disagree about its effects on memory and cognitive abilities. study showed that people with the highest amounts of vitamin B 12 were less likely to experience brain shrinkage with age. The study measured blood levels of vitamin B 12 and brain volume every year for five years in people aged 61 to 87. All of the people in the study had normal blood levels of the vitamin, it was only the people with the highest amount who seemed to get any protection. While the study showed a relationship between vitamin B 12 levels and brain volume, it did not show that taking vitamin B 12 would reduce the rate of brain shrinkage with age (that study is in progress). Also, researchers did not report a link between low levels of B 12 and decreased mental function. It's probably best to boost vitamin B 12 through diet rather than taking in supplements. Good sources include dairy products, meat, and fortified breakfast cereals.