According to a pooled analysis of two randomized placebo controlled studies, older people with mild Cognitive Impairment saw significant cognitive benefits when supplementing with B Vitamins.
Data from over 500 people with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) from 2 separate studies was analyzed. The study results showed that B Vitamins significantly reduced brain atrophy. Additionally the studies showed Clinical Dementia Ratings also were significantly improved in participants supplementing with B Vitamins but only in participants who did not take aspirin. Researchers found an interaction between aspirin and folic acid. There is some scientific literature that shows aspirin may have anti-folate effects. It seems aspirin may increase folate excretion in the urine. It has also been reported that aspirin may inhibit the activity of the DHFR enzyme (folate-dependent dihydrofolate reductase) in the liver. This means that folic acid in not efficiently metabolized which leads to increases in circulating levels of unmetabolized folic acid.
We know that brain functioning naturally declines as we age and MCI (Mild Cognitive Impairment) is a transitional state which occurs when small memory changes as well as other mental abilities coexist with normal functioning. These declines may be a warning sign of dementia. Dementia is a term used to describe many brain disorders that progress into the loss of brain functioning.
The relationship between cognitive function and B Vitamins are believed to be linked to high homocysteine levels. Researchers believe increased levels of homocysteine (an amino acid) are connected to higher levels of brain atrophy and MCI.
Tissue and Plasma concentrations of homocysteine are determined by Vitamin B status. B Vitamins are cofactors for the enzymes needed for homocysteine metabolism. Many prior studies have looked at supplementation with B Vitamins and brain health in older individuals.
Further studies are needed.
Now here is a little basic information about B Vitamins:
Collectively, all B-Vitamins are called B-Complex. The Vitamins B-1, B-2 and B-6 should be taken in equal strengths, as should Choline and Inositol. B-Complex Vitamins are active providing the body with energy, basically by converting carbohydrates into glucose which the body then burns to produce energy. B Complex Vitamins are also vital in the metabolism of protein and fat. The B Vitamins are necessary for normal functioning of the central nervous system and may be the single most important factor for the health of nerves. During times of stress the nervous system can become depleted of B Vitamins. Stressful situations include physical or emotional overwork, infection or injury, fad or poor dieting, excessive alcohol or drug use and intense sports and workout. Other B- Vitamin functions include muscle tone maintenance in the gastrointestinal tract as well as skin, hair, eyes, mouth and liver health. A B- Vitamin deficiency can cause fatigue or low energy levels, affect the inability to handle stress, nervousness and result in poor hair and skin condition.
B-Vitamins are water soluble which means they are not stored but remain within cells and in the bloodstream for just a few hours. What is not used in this short period of time is excreted from the body as waste. Most people take a controlled released form of water soluble supplements to insure the most absorption. Controlled release is a process used in manufacturing water soluble supplements that provide a prolonged dispersion of these water soluble vitamins throughout the day (Up to 12 hours). Controlled release allows the water soluble nutrients to be released into the bloodstream more slowly, over a prolonged period of time, at a rate that allows tissues to efficiently absorb and utilize them.
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