There are a great number of people out there who rely on vitamin B12 supplements as a natural way to help ease stress and boost their energy levels. While the vitamin’s ability to enhance mental performance is relatively well known, research suggests that the effects of B12 deficiency may be more serious than a simple lack of energy. Let’s take a look at seven of them.
1. Cognitive Impairment
In the elderly, B12 deficiency has been linked to cognitive impairment and dementia. This deficiency has also been linked to other neurodegenerative disorders such as multiple sclerosis and Parkinson’s disease. [1]
2. Psychosis
Global Healing Center ... Buy New $19.95 (as of 07:10 UTC - Details) Depressed mood, hallucinations, seizures and hypertension have been found in subjects who tested positive only for low B12 levels. Administration of B12 has been found to result in quick recovery (less than a week). [2] In one case, a middle-aged man diagnosed with obsessive compulsive disorder and low B12 levels found relief through the use of methylcobalamin (B12). [3]
3. Melancholic Depression
Individuals suffering from melancholic depression (caused by physical rather than psychological factors) have consistently displayed an inverse relationship between B12 levels and depression. [4]
4. Stroke
Increases in homocysteine levels resulting from adequate B12 have linked a B12 deficiency to stroke. One reported case involved an older male suffering from recurring strokes along with reduction in blood cells from an intestinal inability to absorb B12. This resulted in abnormally high levels of homocysteine in the blood — a likely contributor to stroke and blood clots. [5]
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