Age related decline in cognitive function and other neurodegenerative diseases have often been associated with deficiencies in folic acid and Vitamin B12. The April issue of Archives of Neurology published a prospective study that examined the relationship between folic acid and Vitamin B12 and age related cognitive decline in elderly adults.
There were 3718 participants in the study enrolled from nursing homes and retirement care centers. Each participant was given cognitive testing at baseline and 3 and 6-year follow-up periods.
The study found that there is a relationship between folic acid and age related cognitive decline; however it is different than expected. High dose folic acid was found to increase age related cognitive decline in the elderly population. Amounts greater than 400mcg/day are considered high dose. On the other hand, high dose of Vitamin B12 was associated with a decrease in age related cognitive decline.
Results from this study changed past belief that supplementation with both folic acid and Vitamin B12 may help prevent or decrease cognitive decline, as well as other neurodegenerative diseases. At this point one should exercise caution when taking folic acid during late adulthood.
Leave a comment