Alzheimer's Disease
Ask the doctor: Can B vitamins help prevent dementia?
Q. Is it true that B vitamins can reduce my risk of Alzheimer's disease and other types of dementia?
A. The simple answer appears to be "probably not." But few things in medicine are simple. A century ago, we ate a lot more foods rich in B vitamins than we eat today. Diets low in B vitamins—particularly folic acid, vitamin B6, and vitamin B12—can raise blood levels of a natural chemical called homocysteine. This, in turn, can promote atherosclerosis of the arteries of the heart and brain—resulting in heart attacks, strokes, and dementia.
To continue reading this article, you must log in.
Subscribe to Harvard Health Online for immediate access to health news and information from Harvard Medical School.
- Research health conditions
- Check your symptoms
- Prepare for a doctor's visit or test
- Find the best treatments and procedures for you
- Explore options for better nutrition and exercise
I'd like to receive access to Harvard Health Online for only $4.99 a month.
Sign Me UpAlready a member? Login ».
Disclaimer:
As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.
No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.
