6398 - B12

I found some new information about vitamin B12 and old people. That would include me.

This is the article that caught my attention.

https://neurosciencenews.com/vitamin-b12-cognitive-decline-28443/ 

Then I went to the Cleveland Clinic to see what they had.

This is a longer article. But here's the bad stuff...

Outlook / Prognosis

What is the prognosis (outlook) for vitamin B12 deficiency?

The prognosis for people with vitamin B12 deficiency depends on how early the deficiency is diagnosed and treated. If the vitamin B12 deficiency is caught early, most symptoms improve with treatment. Depending on the cause of your vitamin B12 deficiency, you may have to only take medication for a short amount of time, or you may have to take medication for the rest of your life.

If vitamin B12 deficiency is left untreated, it can cause lasting side effects that affect the nervous system and brain. More severe side effects of vitamin B12 deficiency include:

Peripheral neuropathy.

Degeneration of the spinal cord.

Paralysis.

Bowel incontinence and/or urinary incontinence.

Erectile dysfunction.

Depression.

Paranoia and delusions.

Memory loss.

Here's the whole article...

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/22831-vitamin-b12-deficiency 

B12 pills are cheap. B12 can be normal in a blood test but still be a problem.

From Healthline...

Though doses of up to 2,000 mcg of vitamin B12 are considered safe, it’s best to speak with a doctor to find out whether taking a supplement is necessary.

Most people can fulfill their B12 needs through a nutrient-rich diet. However, some people, including older adults and those with certain dietary restrictions, should consider talking with their doctor about supplementation.