Alzheimer's disease is a degenerative brain disease that causes impairment in memory and mental function, affecting an estimated 5 million Americans, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Vitamin B12 and folic acid are two nutrients necessary for brain health, and a deficiency in these vitamins appears to be linked with Alzheimer's disease. If you are a caretaker for a person diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease and are considering using vitamin B12 and folic acid supplementation, you should first talk to a doctor.
Alzheimer's and Brain Changes
Alzheimer's disease is characterized by an excessive buildup of two proteins in the brain. Cells containing beta-amyloid protein accumulate and disturb the normal connections between nerve cells. The other protein involved in Alzheimer's is called tau protein. Tau protein is normally found in healthy individuals, but in Alzheimer's disease it becomes twisted and causes brain cell damage, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
B12 and Folic Deficiency Linked With Alzheimer's
A deficiency of B12, folic acid and B6 increases the blood levels of an amino acid called homocysteine. High homocysteine levels are a risk factor for Alzheimer's disease, indicates a medical team from Temple University. The scientists conducted a study published in the March 2010 issue of "Experimental Gerontology." The researchers fed animal subjects a diet deficient in B12, B6 and folic acids and evaluated several protein levels in the brain. They found that the diet increased blood levels of homocysteine and subsequently promoted buildup of beta-amyloid protein in the brain. The conclusion supports the concept that dietary factors, particularly a deficiency in B12, B6 and folic acid, may play a role in the development of Alzheimer's disease.
Folic Acid Enhancement of the Effects of Conventional Drugs
Memantine is a conventional drug prescribed for moderate to severe forms of Alzheimer's. A study featured in 2010 in "Journal of Alzheimer's Disease" evaluated potential benefits of combining folic acid and memantine for managing this condition. The authors found that folic acid worked in synergy with the conventional drug, enhancing its effects, especially in improving spatial memory and protecting brain cells from excess accumulation of beta-amyloid proteins.
Considerations
Consult a qualified health care professional to find out whether or not the person you take care of is deficient in these two essential nutrients. You will also get information about an optimal dosage of B12 and folic acid that may help improve symptoms. A healthy diet based on fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains and cold water fish may also be beneficial for someone suffering from Alzheimer's, says the University of Maryland Medical Center. Keep in mind these vitamins do not replace any conventional drugs prescribed for the disease.
References
- "Experimental Gerontology"; Acceleration of brain amyloidosis in an Alzheimer's disease mouse model by a folate, vitamin B6 and B12-deficient diet; J.M. Zhuo and D. Pratico; March 2010
- "Journal of Alzheimer's Disease"; Folic Acid potentiates the effect of memantine on spatial learning and neuronal protection in an Alzheimer's disease transgenic model; T.F. Chen et al.; 2010
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Alzheimer's disease
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