Vitamin B can cut the rate of brain shrinkage for Dementia by 50%

New research shows that a large daily dose of vitamin B can can cut the rate of brain shrinkage in elderly people with memory problems by 50%.

Researchers from Oxford University studied the rate of brain shrinkage in 168 over-70s, who had been diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment. This clinical trial was the largest to date into the effect of B vitamins on “mild cognitive impairment” — a major risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. The results were so impressive that the scientists behind the work believe it could revolutionize the treatment of the disease.

The study published in the Public Library of Science (PLoS) One journal showed that on average the brain shrinkage in those who took the B vitamins was 0.76% a year compared to 1.08% for those who took the placebo. Over a two-year period, half were given a daily tablet containing high doses of the vitamins B folate (B9), B6 and B12. The rest received a placebo pill with no active ingredients.

The discovery involves homocysteine, a compound, which is secreted in the body and, at high levels, has been linked to memory loss and Alzheimer’s.

The researchers believe the vitamin treatment may delay or even prevent development of the disease. They are now seeking funding for another trial which will put this theory to the test.

Approximately 16% of individuals aged over 70 years are affected by mild cognitive impairment, the authors note.

Professor David Smith of Oxford and co-author of the study said that the results are striking and dramatic. Smith also said that they hope that this simple and safe solution might the answer that they have been looking for to delay the development of Alzheimer’s in many who suffers memory loss.