If you’re feeling foggy, sluggish, forgetful or just generally out of sorts, you might be thinking you need to prioritize sleep or get a better handle on your stress levels. But what if you’re actually dealing with a nutrient deficiency?
For a vitamin that isn’t exactly top of mind for most people, vitamin B-12 plays a surprisingly large role in nervous system functioning and overall brain health, including supporting memory, focus, mental health, and keeping brain cells healthy. When B-12 levels drop too low, the brain is one of the first places you might see the effects, with symptoms like forgetfulness and brain fog.
B-12 deficiency is more common than most people realize, affecting around 6% of Americans younger than 60 and around 20% of those older than 60, though the exact numbers vary. Many different causes can play into B-12 deficiency, including the food you eat, medications you take, and issues with absorption and your age, with older adults being more susceptible.
“Vitamin B12 deficiency is one of the few reversible causes of cognitive decline,” said Dr. Majid Fotuhi, a neurologist and adjunct professor at Johns Hopkins University. “Catching it early can prevent long-term brain damage and restore mental clarity.”
