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B Vitamins are Great for Brain Health
Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is an essential vitamin. That means your body needs it but does not naturally produce B12. Therefore, the vehicle for obtaining B12 is through diet and supplements. B12 and all of the B vitamins are necessary for good health. Vitamin B12 plays a key role in cognitive function, supporting bone health, energy levels, normal function of nerve cells and mood. Vitamin B12 is a nutrient that helps to keep your body’s blood and nerve cells healthy. B12 helps to make DNA, the genetic material in all of your cells, and helps prevent megaloblastic anemia, a blood condition that makes people tired and weak.1 A nutritious diet that includes liver, clams, salmon, beef, tuna, fortified cereal and dairy products will help you get the correct amount of B12, but supplements are an easier and more helpful way to get what you need.
When it comes to brain health, focus on the three Bs: vitamins B6, B12 and B9. “These three types of B vitamins are necessary for the brain’s normal functioning,” says Dr. Agarwal, “and any deficiency in them may increase the risk of memory loss and other forms of cognitive decline.” The reason: These vitamins help to boost the production of transmitters, or brain chemicals, that deliver messages between the brain and body.2
Fortunately for you, TriVita’s Original B-12 (1000 mcg) and Super B-12 (3000 mcg) include plenty of B12, B6 and B9.
Vitamin B12 deficiency is linked to impaired cognition, memory loss, vision problems and dementia symptoms. You can learn your vitamin B12 levels by asking your primary care physician to check your levels during a regular checkup or when you get your blood work during your regular checkup. Some signs of vitamin B12 deficiency are:3
• A Pale Yellow Tinge to Your Skin
• A Sore and Red Tongue (Glossitis)
• Mouth Ulcers
• Pins and Needles (Paraesthesia)
• Changes in the Way that You Walk and Move Around
• Disturbed Vision
• Irritability
• Depression
A healthy diet and a good vitamin B12 supplement are very important for your overall wellness.
References:
1. https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminB12-Consumer/
2. https://www.prevention.com/food-nutrition/healthy-eating/a35981778/ vitamins-for-brain-health/
3. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/vitamin-b12-or-folate-deficiency-anaemia/ symptoms/