While vitamin B12 has always played a significant role in maintaining our overall health, it is only recently that people have started to take this nutrient seriously. Our body requires vitamin B12, or cobalamin, to aid several functions, including DNA synthesis and the formation of Red Blood Cells (RBCs) to prevent a certain type of anaemia.
Additionally, and most importantly, vitamin B12 also helps maintain a healthy nervous system. However, failing to keep up with the daily nutrient requirements may lead to deficiency, which can cause several health issues, including cognitive issues. These neurological symptoms can sometimes mimic Alzheimer’s disease and lead to the wrong diagnosis. Therefore, to differentiate between the two, we spoke to Dr Kadam Nagpal, Senior Consultant-Neurology, PSRI Hospital, New Delhi.
Understanding Alzheimer’s Disease
Many people confuse dementia for a disease. However, it is a term that refers to a group of symptoms that affect memory, thinking, and social abilities. While it can be caused by several factors, Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia, contributing to 60–70% of cases, as per the World Health Organization (WHO).
Although younger people may develop Alzheimer's, it is more common in older adults. According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the number of people with the disease doubles about every 5 years beyond age 65, and symptoms can first appear after age 60, with the risk increasing with age.
Some of the common symptoms include:
- Memory loss
- Difficulty planning and problem-solving
- Confusion with time or place
- Language problems
- Poor judgement and decision-making
- Changes in mood and personality
- Withdrawal from social activities
- Misplacing objects and accusing others
- Difficulty completing familiar tasks
- Changes in vision or spatial relationships
Vitamin B12 Deficiency Symptoms That Can Mimic Alzheimer’s Disease
The signs of Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia can look like the symptoms of a vitamin B12 deficiency, said Dr Nagpal.
These include forgetfulness, confusion, difficulty concentrating, finding the right words and expressing thoughts, mood swings, problems with balance and coordination, and an increased risk of falling.
He explained, “Vitamin B12 deficiency is often overlooked but can impact multiple bodily systems, particularly the Central Nervous System (CNS). Prolonged deficiency in vitamin B12 can result in nerve damage, leading to persistent neurological symptoms.”
According to him, these symptoms may resemble or be mistaken for dementia, causing delays in early diagnosis and treatment.
Can Vitamin B12 Deficiency Cause Dementia?
While studies are yet to establish a direct link between vitamin B12 deficiency and Alzheimer’s, there has been evidence that shows low levels of vitamin B12 can lead to a reversible form of dementia.
A 2020 study published in the journal Cureus found a "clear association" between B12 deficiency and progressive cognitive impairment, with many showing memory problems and needing help with daily tasks. Researchers noted that chronic B12 deficiency could lead to permanent cognitive damage and that early detection and treatment might prevent dementia.
Another study published in the Sage Journals compared elderly people with Alzheimer’s to those without and found those with Alzheimer's more likely to have low B12. While other factors like high blood pressure and smoking were higher in the Alzheimer's group, only low B12 and alcohol use showed a clear connection.
Another factor that puts vitamin B12-deficient people at risk of cognitive decline is increased homocysteine levels in the body. Homocysteine is an amino acid that, when broken down by vitamin B12, B6, and folate, produces the chemicals your body requires. High levels of homocysteine are therefore indicative of vitamin B12 deficiency, which is said to potentially raise the risk of dementia, according to Dr Nagpal.
Also Read: Mouth Ulcers Could Signal Vitamin B12 Deficiency: Other Oral Signs To Watch Out For
How To Treat Vitamin B12 Deficiency?
Dr Nagpal said, "In cases where a patient is diagnosed with dementia and concurrently has a vitamin B12 deficiency, it is crucial to address the deficiency promptly."
He added, "Many forms of dementia can be reversed, and vitamin B12 deficiency-induced dementia is one such reversible condition. Once the deficiency is identified, the most straightforward approach is to replenish vitamin B12 levels using appropriate supplements, either through injections or tablets."
Some of the ways to increase your vitamin B12 levels include:
- Include meat, fish, eggs, and dairy for B12
- Consume fortified cereals, plant-based milk, and nutritional yeast
- Monitor B12 levels through routine blood tests
- Treat issues affecting B12 absorption
- Consume probiotics and a fibre-rich diet
- Cut down alcohol and quit smoking
Conclusion
To maintain a healthy nervous system and improve cognitive functions, it is important to have an adequate level of vitamin B12 in your body. While research has not conclusively established a direct link, evidence suggests that B12 deficiency may contribute to cognitive decline and increase the risk of neurodegenerative disorders, such as Alzheimer's. Eat a balanced diet with sufficient B12-rich foods, consider supplements, and address underlying health conditions to promote brain health.