06.01.04
Indication: Memory
Source: Neuropsychology, April 2004;18(2):362-370.
Research: Investigators studied 167 healthy older people, averaging nearly 83 years old. First, researchers measured vitamin B levels and genotype. Eighty-two of the participants had low B12 levels. Researchers then tested episodic memory, varying the test conditions to make them as sensitive as possible to underlying disorder.
Results: Among carriers of the apolipoprotein E gene (APOE4), people with normal vitamin B12 levels recalled a greater number of words. However, those in the APOE4 group that were identified as having low B12 levels were more vulnerable to low memory function. Researchers concluded that the carriers of the APOE4 gene may derive relatively greater cognitive benefits from vitamin B12 and folate supplements. In addition, they said, “Supplement treatment is relatively inexpensive and may be required as part of preventive health regimens for older persons.”
Source: Neuropsychology, April 2004;18(2):362-370.
Research: Investigators studied 167 healthy older people, averaging nearly 83 years old. First, researchers measured vitamin B levels and genotype. Eighty-two of the participants had low B12 levels. Researchers then tested episodic memory, varying the test conditions to make them as sensitive as possible to underlying disorder.
Results: Among carriers of the apolipoprotein E gene (APOE4), people with normal vitamin B12 levels recalled a greater number of words. However, those in the APOE4 group that were identified as having low B12 levels were more vulnerable to low memory function. Researchers concluded that the carriers of the APOE4 gene may derive relatively greater cognitive benefits from vitamin B12 and folate supplements. In addition, they said, “Supplement treatment is relatively inexpensive and may be required as part of preventive health regimens for older persons.”