Overview
SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Questionable
Based on 7 Researches
6
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 6 Reviews
8.1
Supplement Facts
Serving Size: 1 Nugget
Amount Per Serving
%DV
Vitamin B12 (as methylcobalamin)
1000 mcg
41,667%
Top Medical Research Studies
4
We explored the potential role of vitamin B12, alongside folic acid, in slowing the progression of Alzheimer's disease (AD) through a meta-analysis of randomized control trials. Our aim was to determine whether these supplements might improve cognitive function, daily life activities, and influence blood homocysteine levels in individuals diagnosed with AD.
After carefully sifting through studies, we found five that met our criteria. These studies assessed the cognitive changes in participants through the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) and the Alzheimer's Disease Assessment Scale-Cognitive Subscale (ADAS-Cog). Additionally, they examined the impact on daily functioning as well as blood homocysteine levels.
The results showed that after six months of treatment, participants taking vitamin B12 and folic acid did experience a slight improvement in MMSE scores compared to those on a placebo. However, there was no significant change in the ADAS-Cog scores, which means some cognitive aspects didn’t show marked improvement. Likewise, daily life functioning did not see any benefits from the supplements.
Importantly, we also noted a significant reduction in blood homocysteine levels following the supplementation, suggesting a biochemical effect of the treatment. Overall, while vitamin B12 shows promise in enhancing some cognitive measures, it does not translate directly into broader cognitive or daily functioning improvements in Alzheimer's patients.
After carefully sifting through studies, we found five that met our criteria. These studies assessed the cognitive changes in participants through the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) and the Alzheimer's Disease Assessment Scale-Cognitive Subscale (ADAS-Cog). Additionally, they examined the impact on daily functioning as well as blood homocysteine levels.
The results showed that after six months of treatment, participants taking vitamin B12 and folic acid did experience a slight improvement in MMSE scores compared to those on a placebo. However, there was no significant change in the ADAS-Cog scores, which means some cognitive aspects didn’t show marked improvement. Likewise, daily life functioning did not see any benefits from the supplements.
Importantly, we also noted a significant reduction in blood homocysteine levels following the supplementation, suggesting a biochemical effect of the treatment. Overall, while vitamin B12 shows promise in enhancing some cognitive measures, it does not translate directly into broader cognitive or daily functioning improvements in Alzheimer's patients.
Read More
8
We conducted a thorough analysis to explore the relationship between vitamin B12 and the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Our research involved a large cohort of 192,214 participants who provided dietary information through 24-hour dietary questionnaires. This extensive study allowed us to investigate not just vitamin B12 alone, but in conjunction with other one-carbon metabolism (OCM) nutrients.
Through our analysis, we observed notable findings. Those who consumed higher amounts of OCM nutrients, including vitamin B12, showed a reduced risk of developing Alzheimer's. Specifically, for individuals with early-onset Alzheimer’s, increased dietary intake of vitamin B12 correlated with a significant decrease in risk—by about 71%. This suggests that maintaining a diet rich in vitamin B12, alongside other beneficial nutrients, could be particularly advantageous to those at greater genetic risk for Alzheimer’s.
Overall, our results emphasize that while vitamin B12 is an important part of the diet, it works best in conjunction with other OCM nutrients. This reinforces the idea that a balanced diet may offer protective benefits against Alzheimer’s. As we move forward, these insights could help guide dietary recommendations for individuals with high genetic risks of AD.
Through our analysis, we observed notable findings. Those who consumed higher amounts of OCM nutrients, including vitamin B12, showed a reduced risk of developing Alzheimer's. Specifically, for individuals with early-onset Alzheimer’s, increased dietary intake of vitamin B12 correlated with a significant decrease in risk—by about 71%. This suggests that maintaining a diet rich in vitamin B12, alongside other beneficial nutrients, could be particularly advantageous to those at greater genetic risk for Alzheimer’s.
Overall, our results emphasize that while vitamin B12 is an important part of the diet, it works best in conjunction with other OCM nutrients. This reinforces the idea that a balanced diet may offer protective benefits against Alzheimer’s. As we move forward, these insights could help guide dietary recommendations for individuals with high genetic risks of AD.
Read More
7
We explored how different markers of vitamin B12 status influence biomarkers of Alzheimer's disease (AD) and cognitive performance. The study focused on 462 patients, ranging from 40 to 94 years old, who were assessed at the Memory Clinic of Ulm University Hospital in Germany.
By measuring levels of vitamin B12, holotranscobalamin, homocysteine, and methylmalonic acid, we aimed to see how these factors related to cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) indicators like amyloid beta and total-tau, which are linked to Alzheimer's. Results showed that higher levels of methylmalonic acid (MMA) were strongly associated with increased total-tau values, suggesting a link between B12 status and AD pathology. Furthermore, moderate levels of MMA were correlated with lower amyloid levels.
Interestingly, while vitamin B12 itself did not show notable links, other markers like MMA were connected to cognitive performance, particularly in areas such as episodic memory and executive function. This suggests that vitamin B12-related markers may serve as independent predictors of cognitive decline and Alzheimer's pathology.
Though the findings present a compelling case for the role of vitamin B12 in Alzheimer's, it’s clear that further research, including randomized controlled trials, is needed to determine the actual benefits of B12 supplementation in slowing cognitive decline and brain changes.
By measuring levels of vitamin B12, holotranscobalamin, homocysteine, and methylmalonic acid, we aimed to see how these factors related to cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) indicators like amyloid beta and total-tau, which are linked to Alzheimer's. Results showed that higher levels of methylmalonic acid (MMA) were strongly associated with increased total-tau values, suggesting a link between B12 status and AD pathology. Furthermore, moderate levels of MMA were correlated with lower amyloid levels.
Interestingly, while vitamin B12 itself did not show notable links, other markers like MMA were connected to cognitive performance, particularly in areas such as episodic memory and executive function. This suggests that vitamin B12-related markers may serve as independent predictors of cognitive decline and Alzheimer's pathology.
Though the findings present a compelling case for the role of vitamin B12 in Alzheimer's, it’s clear that further research, including randomized controlled trials, is needed to determine the actual benefits of B12 supplementation in slowing cognitive decline and brain changes.
Read More
Most Useful Reviews
7.5
Supports neurological function
6 people found this helpful
A tablet under the tongue after breakfast provides essential Vitamin B12, which is crucial for hormonal and metabolic functions. This vitamin is necessary for energy production, normal neurological function, and blood formation. It aids in the transport of nutrients and protects vascular walls, preventing cardiovascular issues, Alzheimer's, and dementia. The B12 synergy is vital for over 100 functions daily.
Read More
7.5
Protects against dementia
2 people found this helpful
Methylcobalamin has significantly enriched my life. I felt a wonderful surge of vitality and energy, while my skin and hair thrived. This vitamin is crucial for myelin synthesis, which protects nerve fibres and ensures swift signal transmission. I noticed improved blood circulation and, importantly, I found that it aids in eliminating homocysteine, a waste product that can be toxic to cells. This is vital for preventing cardiovascular issues, Alzheimer's disease, and dementia. It's also integral for mood and brain function. My review aims to be helpful for your choices. I appreciate everyone who shares their insights!
Read More
7.5
Maintains cognitive health
1 people found this helpful
This active form of B12 is essential for cognitive function, especially for vegetarians like me. B12 levels are foundational in combating neurodegenerative processes, such as Alzheimer's. With age, absorption diminishes, making supplementation necessary, particularly after 40. This sublingual formula offers optimal absorption and my tests confirm this product maintains excellent B12 levels!
Read More
Medical Researches
SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Questionable
Based on 7 Researches
6
- All Researches
8
We conducted a thorough analysis to explore the relationship between vitamin B12 and the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Our research involved a large cohort of 192,214 participants who provided dietary information through 24-hour dietary questionnaires. This extensive study allowed us to investigate not just vitamin B12 alone, but in conjunction with other one-carbon metabolism (OCM) nutrients.
Through our analysis, we observed notable findings. Those who consumed higher amounts of OCM nutrients, including vitamin B12, showed a reduced risk of developing Alzheimer's. Specifically, for individuals with early-onset Alzheimer’s, increased dietary intake of vitamin B12 correlated with a significant decrease in risk—by about 71%. This suggests that maintaining a diet rich in vitamin B12, alongside other beneficial nutrients, could be particularly advantageous to those at greater genetic risk for Alzheimer’s.
Overall, our results emphasize that while vitamin B12 is an important part of the diet, it works best in conjunction with other OCM nutrients. This reinforces the idea that a balanced diet may offer protective benefits against Alzheimer’s. As we move forward, these insights could help guide dietary recommendations for individuals with high genetic risks of AD.
Through our analysis, we observed notable findings. Those who consumed higher amounts of OCM nutrients, including vitamin B12, showed a reduced risk of developing Alzheimer's. Specifically, for individuals with early-onset Alzheimer’s, increased dietary intake of vitamin B12 correlated with a significant decrease in risk—by about 71%. This suggests that maintaining a diet rich in vitamin B12, alongside other beneficial nutrients, could be particularly advantageous to those at greater genetic risk for Alzheimer’s.
Overall, our results emphasize that while vitamin B12 is an important part of the diet, it works best in conjunction with other OCM nutrients. This reinforces the idea that a balanced diet may offer protective benefits against Alzheimer’s. As we move forward, these insights could help guide dietary recommendations for individuals with high genetic risks of AD.
Read More
8
We explored the effects of vitamin B12, along with vitamin D and folic acid, on improving learning and memory in mice with vitamin D deficiency. The study involved feeding C57BL/6J mice a vitamin D-deficient diet for 13 weeks before supplementing them with these vitamins for eight weeks.
After this supplementation, we observed significant improvements in the mice’s learning and memory abilities, as evidenced by tests such as the Morris Water Maze and the Novel Object Recognition test. Specifically, the mice that received vitamin B12 alongside vitamin D and folic acid showed better performance, indicating that these nutrients could work together to reverse cognitive impairments due to vitamin D deficiency.
Our results suggest that vitamin B12 plays a supportive role in enhancing cognitive function, particularly when paired with other vitamins that support overall health. Notably, while vitamin B12's isolated benefits can't be entirely determined in this setup, its inclusion in the co-supplementation regimen illustrates its potential importance in tackling vitamin D deficiency effects.
After this supplementation, we observed significant improvements in the mice’s learning and memory abilities, as evidenced by tests such as the Morris Water Maze and the Novel Object Recognition test. Specifically, the mice that received vitamin B12 alongside vitamin D and folic acid showed better performance, indicating that these nutrients could work together to reverse cognitive impairments due to vitamin D deficiency.
Our results suggest that vitamin B12 plays a supportive role in enhancing cognitive function, particularly when paired with other vitamins that support overall health. Notably, while vitamin B12's isolated benefits can't be entirely determined in this setup, its inclusion in the co-supplementation regimen illustrates its potential importance in tackling vitamin D deficiency effects.
Read More
7
Vitamin B12 aids Alzheimer therapy
We investigated the effects of vitamin B12 in combination with donepezil on rats suffering from aluminium chloride-induced neurotoxicity, a model mimicking aspects of Alzheimer’s disease. Our study involved several groups of rats, some receiving only aluminium chloride, while others were treated with donepezil and/or vitamin B12, along with vitamin B6 and vitamin B1. Over 40 days, we closely examined the biochemical changes in their brains and their behavior in cognitive tests.
Our observations revealed that vitamin B12, when combined with donepezil, contributed positively by reducing levels of harmful markers typically associated with neurotoxicity. The combination therapy showed enhanced protection compared to donepezil alone, boosting measures of neurotransmitter levels and antioxidant activity while lowering inflammation and oxidative stress indicators.
While vitamin B12 played a significant role in this combination therapy, we noted that the best results came from the combination of donepezil and vitamin B1. However, our findings illustrate that even though vitamin B12 showed effectiveness, it works best alongside donepezil and other B vitamins, rather than in isolation. This underscores the potential of combination therapies in tackling the complexities of neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer’s.
Our observations revealed that vitamin B12, when combined with donepezil, contributed positively by reducing levels of harmful markers typically associated with neurotoxicity. The combination therapy showed enhanced protection compared to donepezil alone, boosting measures of neurotransmitter levels and antioxidant activity while lowering inflammation and oxidative stress indicators.
While vitamin B12 played a significant role in this combination therapy, we noted that the best results came from the combination of donepezil and vitamin B1. However, our findings illustrate that even though vitamin B12 showed effectiveness, it works best alongside donepezil and other B vitamins, rather than in isolation. This underscores the potential of combination therapies in tackling the complexities of neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer’s.
Read More
7
We explored how different markers of vitamin B12 status influence biomarkers of Alzheimer's disease (AD) and cognitive performance. The study focused on 462 patients, ranging from 40 to 94 years old, who were assessed at the Memory Clinic of Ulm University Hospital in Germany.
By measuring levels of vitamin B12, holotranscobalamin, homocysteine, and methylmalonic acid, we aimed to see how these factors related to cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) indicators like amyloid beta and total-tau, which are linked to Alzheimer's. Results showed that higher levels of methylmalonic acid (MMA) were strongly associated with increased total-tau values, suggesting a link between B12 status and AD pathology. Furthermore, moderate levels of MMA were correlated with lower amyloid levels.
Interestingly, while vitamin B12 itself did not show notable links, other markers like MMA were connected to cognitive performance, particularly in areas such as episodic memory and executive function. This suggests that vitamin B12-related markers may serve as independent predictors of cognitive decline and Alzheimer's pathology.
Though the findings present a compelling case for the role of vitamin B12 in Alzheimer's, it’s clear that further research, including randomized controlled trials, is needed to determine the actual benefits of B12 supplementation in slowing cognitive decline and brain changes.
By measuring levels of vitamin B12, holotranscobalamin, homocysteine, and methylmalonic acid, we aimed to see how these factors related to cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) indicators like amyloid beta and total-tau, which are linked to Alzheimer's. Results showed that higher levels of methylmalonic acid (MMA) were strongly associated with increased total-tau values, suggesting a link between B12 status and AD pathology. Furthermore, moderate levels of MMA were correlated with lower amyloid levels.
Interestingly, while vitamin B12 itself did not show notable links, other markers like MMA were connected to cognitive performance, particularly in areas such as episodic memory and executive function. This suggests that vitamin B12-related markers may serve as independent predictors of cognitive decline and Alzheimer's pathology.
Though the findings present a compelling case for the role of vitamin B12 in Alzheimer's, it’s clear that further research, including randomized controlled trials, is needed to determine the actual benefits of B12 supplementation in slowing cognitive decline and brain changes.
Read More
4
We explored the potential role of vitamin B12, alongside folic acid, in slowing the progression of Alzheimer's disease (AD) through a meta-analysis of randomized control trials. Our aim was to determine whether these supplements might improve cognitive function, daily life activities, and influence blood homocysteine levels in individuals diagnosed with AD.
After carefully sifting through studies, we found five that met our criteria. These studies assessed the cognitive changes in participants through the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) and the Alzheimer's Disease Assessment Scale-Cognitive Subscale (ADAS-Cog). Additionally, they examined the impact on daily functioning as well as blood homocysteine levels.
The results showed that after six months of treatment, participants taking vitamin B12 and folic acid did experience a slight improvement in MMSE scores compared to those on a placebo. However, there was no significant change in the ADAS-Cog scores, which means some cognitive aspects didn’t show marked improvement. Likewise, daily life functioning did not see any benefits from the supplements.
Importantly, we also noted a significant reduction in blood homocysteine levels following the supplementation, suggesting a biochemical effect of the treatment. Overall, while vitamin B12 shows promise in enhancing some cognitive measures, it does not translate directly into broader cognitive or daily functioning improvements in Alzheimer's patients.
After carefully sifting through studies, we found five that met our criteria. These studies assessed the cognitive changes in participants through the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) and the Alzheimer's Disease Assessment Scale-Cognitive Subscale (ADAS-Cog). Additionally, they examined the impact on daily functioning as well as blood homocysteine levels.
The results showed that after six months of treatment, participants taking vitamin B12 and folic acid did experience a slight improvement in MMSE scores compared to those on a placebo. However, there was no significant change in the ADAS-Cog scores, which means some cognitive aspects didn’t show marked improvement. Likewise, daily life functioning did not see any benefits from the supplements.
Importantly, we also noted a significant reduction in blood homocysteine levels following the supplementation, suggesting a biochemical effect of the treatment. Overall, while vitamin B12 shows promise in enhancing some cognitive measures, it does not translate directly into broader cognitive or daily functioning improvements in Alzheimer's patients.
Read More
User Reviews
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 6 Reviews
8.1
- All Reviews
- Positive Reviews
- Negative Reviews
7.5
Supports neurological function
6 people found this helpful
A tablet under the tongue after breakfast provides essential Vitamin B12, which is crucial for hormonal and metabolic functions. This vitamin is necessary for energy production, normal neurological function, and blood formation. It aids in the transport of nutrients and protects vascular walls, preventing cardiovascular issues, Alzheimer's, and dementia. The B12 synergy is vital for over 100 functions daily.
Read More
7.5
Protects against dementia
2 people found this helpful
Methylcobalamin has significantly enriched my life. I felt a wonderful surge of vitality and energy, while my skin and hair thrived. This vitamin is crucial for myelin synthesis, which protects nerve fibres and ensures swift signal transmission. I noticed improved blood circulation and, importantly, I found that it aids in eliminating homocysteine, a waste product that can be toxic to cells. This is vital for preventing cardiovascular issues, Alzheimer's disease, and dementia. It's also integral for mood and brain function. My review aims to be helpful for your choices. I appreciate everyone who shares their insights!
Read More
7.5
Maintains cognitive health
1 people found this helpful
This active form of B12 is essential for cognitive function, especially for vegetarians like me. B12 levels are foundational in combating neurodegenerative processes, such as Alzheimer's. With age, absorption diminishes, making supplementation necessary, particularly after 40. This sublingual formula offers optimal absorption and my tests confirm this product maintains excellent B12 levels!
Read More
7.5
Aids Alzheimer prevention
1 people found this helpful
I repurchase this Solgar supplement as it's pivotal for ageing and combating Alzheimer's. The sublingual form is effective, and the tiny capsules are convenient. I'm nearly through my current supply and eagerly awaiting a restock from iHerb.
Read More
7.5
Supports Alzheimer's fight
As I get older, I continue to take Solgar's sublingual Methylcobalamin, which is vital in helping to combat Alzheimer. The size of the capsules is adorable, and I'm looking forward to restocking my supply soon.
Read More
Frequently Asked Questions
7.5
Protects against dementia
2 people found this helpful
Methylcobalamin has significantly enriched my life. I felt a wonderful surge of vitality and energy, while my skin and hair thrived. This vitamin is crucial for myelin synthesis, which protects nerve fibres and ensures swift signal transmission. I noticed improved blood circulation and, importantly, I found that it aids in eliminating homocysteine, a waste product that can be toxic to cells. This is vital for preventing cardiovascular issues, Alzheimer's disease, and dementia. It's also integral for mood and brain function. My review aims to be helpful for your choices. I appreciate everyone who shares their insights!
7.5
Maintains cognitive health
1 people found this helpful
This active form of B12 is essential for cognitive function, especially for vegetarians like me. B12 levels are foundational in combating neurodegenerative processes, such as Alzheimer's. With age, absorption diminishes, making supplementation necessary, particularly after 40. This sublingual formula offers optimal absorption and my tests confirm this product maintains excellent B12 levels!
7.5
Aids Alzheimer prevention
1 people found this helpful
I repurchase this Solgar supplement as it's pivotal for ageing and combating Alzheimer's. The sublingual form is effective, and the tiny capsules are convenient. I'm nearly through my current supply and eagerly awaiting a restock from iHerb.
7.5
Supports neurological function
6 people found this helpful
A tablet under the tongue after breakfast provides essential Vitamin B12, which is crucial for hormonal and metabolic functions. This vitamin is necessary for energy production, normal neurological function, and blood formation. It aids in the transport of nutrients and protects vascular walls, preventing cardiovascular issues, Alzheimer's, and dementia. The B12 synergy is vital for over 100 functions daily.
7
Vitamin B12 aids Alzheimer therapy
We investigated the effects of vitamin B12 in combination with donepezil on rats suffering from aluminium chloride-induced neurotoxicity, a model mimicking aspects of Alzheimer’s disease. Our study involved several groups of rats, some receiving only aluminium chloride, while others were treated with donepezil and/or vitamin B12, along with vitamin B6 and vitamin B1. Over 40 days, we closely examined the biochemical changes in their brains and their behavior in cognitive tests.
Our observations revealed that vitamin B12, when combined with donepezil, contributed positively by reducing levels of harmful markers typically associated with neurotoxicity. The combination therapy showed enhanced protection compared to donepezil alone, boosting measures of neurotransmitter levels and antioxidant activity while lowering inflammation and oxidative stress indicators.
While vitamin B12 played a significant role in this combination therapy, we noted that the best results came from the combination of donepezil and vitamin B1. However, our findings illustrate that even though vitamin B12 showed effectiveness, it works best alongside donepezil and other B vitamins, rather than in isolation. This underscores the potential of combination therapies in tackling the complexities of neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer’s.
Our observations revealed that vitamin B12, when combined with donepezil, contributed positively by reducing levels of harmful markers typically associated with neurotoxicity. The combination therapy showed enhanced protection compared to donepezil alone, boosting measures of neurotransmitter levels and antioxidant activity while lowering inflammation and oxidative stress indicators.
While vitamin B12 played a significant role in this combination therapy, we noted that the best results came from the combination of donepezil and vitamin B1. However, our findings illustrate that even though vitamin B12 showed effectiveness, it works best alongside donepezil and other B vitamins, rather than in isolation. This underscores the potential of combination therapies in tackling the complexities of neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer’s.
8
We conducted a thorough analysis to explore the relationship between vitamin B12 and the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Our research involved a large cohort of 192,214 participants who provided dietary information through 24-hour dietary questionnaires. This extensive study allowed us to investigate not just vitamin B12 alone, but in conjunction with other one-carbon metabolism (OCM) nutrients.
Through our analysis, we observed notable findings. Those who consumed higher amounts of OCM nutrients, including vitamin B12, showed a reduced risk of developing Alzheimer's. Specifically, for individuals with early-onset Alzheimer’s, increased dietary intake of vitamin B12 correlated with a significant decrease in risk—by about 71%. This suggests that maintaining a diet rich in vitamin B12, alongside other beneficial nutrients, could be particularly advantageous to those at greater genetic risk for Alzheimer’s.
Overall, our results emphasize that while vitamin B12 is an important part of the diet, it works best in conjunction with other OCM nutrients. This reinforces the idea that a balanced diet may offer protective benefits against Alzheimer’s. As we move forward, these insights could help guide dietary recommendations for individuals with high genetic risks of AD.
Through our analysis, we observed notable findings. Those who consumed higher amounts of OCM nutrients, including vitamin B12, showed a reduced risk of developing Alzheimer's. Specifically, for individuals with early-onset Alzheimer’s, increased dietary intake of vitamin B12 correlated with a significant decrease in risk—by about 71%. This suggests that maintaining a diet rich in vitamin B12, alongside other beneficial nutrients, could be particularly advantageous to those at greater genetic risk for Alzheimer’s.
Overall, our results emphasize that while vitamin B12 is an important part of the diet, it works best in conjunction with other OCM nutrients. This reinforces the idea that a balanced diet may offer protective benefits against Alzheimer’s. As we move forward, these insights could help guide dietary recommendations for individuals with high genetic risks of AD.
4
We explored the potential role of vitamin B12, alongside folic acid, in slowing the progression of Alzheimer's disease (AD) through a meta-analysis of randomized control trials. Our aim was to determine whether these supplements might improve cognitive function, daily life activities, and influence blood homocysteine levels in individuals diagnosed with AD.
After carefully sifting through studies, we found five that met our criteria. These studies assessed the cognitive changes in participants through the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) and the Alzheimer's Disease Assessment Scale-Cognitive Subscale (ADAS-Cog). Additionally, they examined the impact on daily functioning as well as blood homocysteine levels.
The results showed that after six months of treatment, participants taking vitamin B12 and folic acid did experience a slight improvement in MMSE scores compared to those on a placebo. However, there was no significant change in the ADAS-Cog scores, which means some cognitive aspects didn’t show marked improvement. Likewise, daily life functioning did not see any benefits from the supplements.
Importantly, we also noted a significant reduction in blood homocysteine levels following the supplementation, suggesting a biochemical effect of the treatment. Overall, while vitamin B12 shows promise in enhancing some cognitive measures, it does not translate directly into broader cognitive or daily functioning improvements in Alzheimer's patients.
After carefully sifting through studies, we found five that met our criteria. These studies assessed the cognitive changes in participants through the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) and the Alzheimer's Disease Assessment Scale-Cognitive Subscale (ADAS-Cog). Additionally, they examined the impact on daily functioning as well as blood homocysteine levels.
The results showed that after six months of treatment, participants taking vitamin B12 and folic acid did experience a slight improvement in MMSE scores compared to those on a placebo. However, there was no significant change in the ADAS-Cog scores, which means some cognitive aspects didn’t show marked improvement. Likewise, daily life functioning did not see any benefits from the supplements.
Importantly, we also noted a significant reduction in blood homocysteine levels following the supplementation, suggesting a biochemical effect of the treatment. Overall, while vitamin B12 shows promise in enhancing some cognitive measures, it does not translate directly into broader cognitive or daily functioning improvements in Alzheimer's patients.
4
We set out to investigate the relationship between vitamin B12 levels and Alzheimer's disease, along with other types of dementia like vascular dementia, frontotemporal dementia, and Lewy body dementia. In this study, we measured the serum levels of homocysteine (Hcy), vitamin B12, and folate in 257 subjects. This included assessments of cognitive functions and brain imaging to gather a comprehensive view of how these nutrients relate to cognitive health.
Our findings revealed that individuals suffering from Alzheimer's, vascular dementia, frontotemporal dementia, and Lewy body dementia had significantly lower levels of vitamin B12 compared to cognitively healthy individuals. Interestingly, in those with Alzheimer's disease, we found that vitamin B12 levels correlated positively with cognitive scores. However, it's essential to note that we did not observe any significant direct benefit of vitamin B12 treatment alone in improving symptoms or slowing the progression in any of the dementia subtypes.
Hyperhomocysteinemia, or high levels of homocysteine, was identified as a risk factor for developing Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia, emphasizing the importance of maintaining healthy vitamin B12 levels as part of a broader approach to cognitive health. Overall, while vitamin B12 appears to be linked with cognitive function in vascular dementia, the direct implications for its treatment in Alzheimer's disease remain less clear.
Our findings revealed that individuals suffering from Alzheimer's, vascular dementia, frontotemporal dementia, and Lewy body dementia had significantly lower levels of vitamin B12 compared to cognitively healthy individuals. Interestingly, in those with Alzheimer's disease, we found that vitamin B12 levels correlated positively with cognitive scores. However, it's essential to note that we did not observe any significant direct benefit of vitamin B12 treatment alone in improving symptoms or slowing the progression in any of the dementia subtypes.
Hyperhomocysteinemia, or high levels of homocysteine, was identified as a risk factor for developing Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia, emphasizing the importance of maintaining healthy vitamin B12 levels as part of a broader approach to cognitive health. Overall, while vitamin B12 appears to be linked with cognitive function in vascular dementia, the direct implications for its treatment in Alzheimer's disease remain less clear.
References
- Ekundayo BE, Adewale OB, Obafemi BA, Ntwasa MM, Lebelo SL, et al. Synergistic Effect of Donepezil and Neurotropic B Vitamins on Dysregulated Antioxidant, Inflammation and Neurotransmitter Status in Aluminium Chloride-Induced Neurotoxicity in Rats. Cell Biochem Funct. 2024;42:e70028. doi:10.1002/cbf.70028
- Wang Y, Mi N, Liao K, Li Y, Sun Y, et al. Associations among dietary 1-carbon metabolism nutrients, genetic risk, and Alzheimer disease: a prospective cohort study. Am J Clin Nutr. 2024;120:1009. doi:10.1016/j.ajcnut.2024.08.027
- Lee CY, Chan L, Hu CJ, Hong CT, Chen JH. Role of vitamin B12 and folic acid in treatment of Alzheimer's disease: a meta-analysis of randomized control trials. Aging (Albany NY). 2024;16:7856. doi:10.18632/aging.205788
- Tu MC, Chung HW, Hsu YH, Yang JJ, Wu WC. Neurovascular Correlates of Cobalamin, Folate, and Homocysteine in Dementia. J Alzheimers Dis. 2023;96:1329. doi:10.3233/JAD-230763
- Hooshmand B, Appold F, Fissler P, Perneczky R, Otto M, et al. Markers of Vitamin B12 Status in Relation to Cerebrospinal Fluid Biomarkers of Alzheimer's Disease and Cognitive Performance. Ann Neurol. 2023;94:223. doi:10.1002/ana.26673
- Wang L, Zhou C, Yu H, Hao L, Ju M, et al. Vitamin D, Folic Acid and Vitamin B Can Reverse Vitamin D Deficiency-Induced Learning and Memory Impairment by Altering 27-Hydroxycholesterol and S-Adenosylmethionine. Nutrients. 2022;15. doi:10.3390/nu15010132
- Song Y, Quan M, Li T, Jia J. Serum Homocysteine, Vitamin B12, Folate, and Their Association with Mild Cognitive Impairment and Subtypes of Dementia. J Alzheimers Dis. 2022;90:681. doi:10.3233/JAD-220410
