Memory loss is defined by Medline Plus as unusual forgetfulness. It may be transient or permanent and it may occur suddenly or it could be progressive. Memory loss may also affect cognitive function depending on the cause and specific location of the brain effected. Excessive alcohol consumption, illegal drug intoxication, cerebral infections or brain trauma can lead to memory loss. Certain vitamins can help prevent memory loss and can be obtained via dietary sources or supplements.
Vitamin D
According to MayoClinic.com, vitamin D primarily functions to maintain normal levels of calcium and phosphorus in the blood. It also helps to form and maintain strong bones by its ability to absorb calcium. Since calcium deficiency leads to memory loss, hallucinations, depression and confusion and vitamin D facilitates the reabsorption of calcium from the bone into the bloodstream, loss of vitamin D is also associated with memory loss. A study conducted by Consuelo H. Wilkins, M.D. and published in the December 2006 issue of " American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry" examined the role of vitamin D deficiency, cognitive function, memory and mood in 80 participants of which 40 had Alzheimer's disease. The results of the study showed that vitamin D deficiency in older individuals resulted in loss of cognitive function in performance test including tests involving short-term memory.
Vitamin B-12
Vitamin B-12 is a water soluble vitamin found in fortified cereals, meat, fish and poultry products. According to the National Institutes of Health, Office of Dietary Supplements, vitamin B-12 is essential for the formation of red blood cells, DNA synthesis, neurological function and neurotransmitter stimulation, thereby enhancing cellular communication. Vitamin B-12 deficiency results in memory loss due to a hinderance of cellular communication, rendering the brain unable to retain or retrieve information. Vitamin B-12 deficiency is common amongst vegetarians and the elderly population, thus vitamin B-12 supplements can help prevent memory loss, notes MayoClinic.com.
Folate
Folate also known as vitamin B-9 is a water soluble B vitamin that aids in memory improvement as well as memory loss. A clinical trial published in the September 2010 issue of "Public Library of Science ONE" showed that B vitamins including folate reduced the levels of homocystein in Alzheimer's patients thereby decreasing and helping to prevent further memory loss. Folate is found in liver, cantaloupes, asparagus, legumes and eggs.
References
- Medline Plus: Memory Loss
- MayoClinic.com: Vitamin D
- MDGuidelines: vitamin D deficiency
- American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry; Vitamin D deficiency is associated with low mood and worse cognitive performance in older adults; CH Wilkins, YI Sheline, CM Roe, SJ Birge and JC Morris; Dec 2006
- National Institutes of Health, Office of Dietary Supplements: Vitamin B12
- MayoClinic.com: Alzheimer's disease
