News
Low levels of vitamin D linked to multiple sclerosis
21 December 2011
A new UK study suggests that a rare genetic variant causing reduced levels of vitamin D may be directly linked to multiple sclerosis.
09 September 2010
Supplementation with B vitamins may halve the rate of brain shrinkage in people with mild memory problems, says a new UK study.
In the randomized controlled trial, 168 people over 70 years old with mild cognitive impairment were randomly assigned to two groups receiving vitamin B9 (0.8 mg folic acid per day), vitamin B12 (0.5 mg/d) and vitamin B6 (20 mg/d) or placebo for 24 months (1). The rate of brain shrinkage (‘atrophy’) was assessed by serial volumetric brain scans. The results showed that participants treated with vitamins lost 30 per cent less brain tissue than those who took a placebo. In the highest risk group, they lost 53 per cent less. The reduced rates of brain atrophy were related to decreased blood concentrations of homocysteine. There was no difference in adverse events between treatment and placebo group.
An increased rate of brain atrophy is often observed in older subjects, in particular those who suffer from cognitive decline. Sixteen percent of those over 70 years old have mild cognitive impairment and half of these develop Alzheimer's disease. Homocysteine has been identified as a risk factor for brain atrophy, cognitive impairment and dementia. Dietary administration of B vitamins has been shown to lower plasma concentrations of homocysteine potentially reducing the risk of dementia.
The researchers commented that it is their hope that this simple and safe treatment will delay the development of Alzheimer’s disease in many people who suffer from mild memory problems. The treatment is only suitable for those with medically diagnosed memory impairment. Experts said that these findings should inspire an expanded trial to follow people expected to develop Alzheimer’s disease.
21 December 2011
A new UK study suggests that a rare genetic variant causing reduced levels of vitamin D may be directly linked to multiple sclerosis.
22 September 2014
A new study from Poland reports that about 50% of adolescents may consume diets that are deficient in vitamin C and vitamin E.
8 February 2012
A new literature analysis suggests that an increased intake of lutein and zeaxanthin may protect against late age-related macular degeneration.