Low B12 Levels Tied to Brain Shrinkage, Memory Loss

Vitamin B12 deficiency can cause memory loss, particularly in the elderly, reports the BBC. People short on the nutrient were 6 times more likely than individuals with normal levels to experience brain shrinkage, which is strongly linked to dementia, a new study shows. Forty percent of people are believed to have deficient levels of B12, which is found in meat, fish, and milk —and that percentage is even higher among the elderly.

"The best way to reduce your risk of developing dementia is to keep active, eat a balanced diet, don't smoke and visit your GP to get your blood pressure and cholesterol checked," say one Alzheimer's doctor. (More health stories.)