There is so much ongoing research into dementia and Alzheimer’s – why we get it, who is more likely to get it, and how we can prevent it. And yet, we still know so little. That is why we are extremely excited whenever a study produces clear results that can give us some hints for what we can start doing now to prevent dementia down the line.
Recent studies suggest that there is a strong correlation between levels of the toxic amino acid homocysteine, which can be measured from a pinprick of blood on a home test kit, and developing dementia later on. Homocysteine is a neurotoxin that damages the medial temporal lobe, which degenerates in dementia.
Alongside the results of homocysteine levels are levels of Vitamin B12 – a higher level of Vitamin B12 correlates with lower levels of homocysteine, as Vitamin B12 is used by the body to process homocysteine. Folic acid is also used in the same way.
The good news is, B-vitamins and folic acid are both inexpensive, accessible, healthy supplements that you can start taking now to reduce your risk of developing dementia.