A UK report has shown that half of young people in their 20s are at risk of vitamin B12 deficiency. The report suggests this may be due to a rising trend in plant-based diets and could have serious health and longevity consequences.
The UK Essential Health Check Report of 2022, conducted by YorkTest, used blood analysis from 4204 people and explored the impact of factors such as age, gender, and vitamin levels.
Vitamin B12 and Longevity
Results showed that 55 percent of women and 40 percent of men in their 20s had low levels of vitamin B12, which may be due to the rising trend of vegan and plant-based diets. At least 36 percent of vegans in the UK are between the ages of 25 and 34 years old, and research shows that up to 90 percent of vegans and vegetarians may be deficient in vitamin B12.
YorkTest Scientific Director Dr Gill Hart said the study was interesting because it challenged scientific evidence that vitamin B12 deficiency is more common in older people and could be due to diets with reduced vitamin intake.
Vitamin B12 is an essential nutrient that plays a vital role in supporting energy metabolism, nerve function, and the production of DNA. Yet, the body does not naturally produce it and deficiency can cause fatigue, blurred vision, poor memory, depression, anemia, damage to the nervous system, and an increased risk of heart attack and stroke.
Brain shrinkage
Studies have shown that optimal levels of vitamin B12 may reduce inflammation, protect against cognitive impairment, improve memory, and lower the risk of dementia. Additionally, a separate study found that low vitamin B12 levels may lead to brain shrinkage due to loss of brain cells.
Health expert Vanessa Ascencao said that around one-quarter of the population may be deficient in vitamin B12. She says this can have negative consequences, particularly for young people, as the brain is still developing.
Deficiency has been linked to conditions such as autism and schizophrenia, and can even mirror symptoms of dementia.
“Ensure a healthy diet that includes good sources of meat, chicken and eggs, fresh fruits, green leafy vegetables and healthy fats such as olive oil, avocado, nuts, seeds and fatty fish. When following a plant-based diet, plan meals ahead.”
“Prioritize a variety of nutrient-rich foods such as spinach, beetroot, and chickpeas, and avoid sugar, alcohol, caffeine, and processed foods as these reduce vitamin B12,” said Ascencao.
The bottom line
“Do regular health checks and try high-quality supplements with proven absorption. Research has shown that vitamin oral sprays offer greater absorption and are twice as effective as tablets, capsules, or drops as the vitamin is transported directly into the bloodstream,” Ascencao added.
Who is the specialist?
Nutritional Consultant Vanessa Ascencao is a dynamic, inspirational, and highly qualified nutritional consultant.
She brings a fresh and revolutionary approach to health, wellness, and personal growth, having spent 15 years studying, researching, and working with some of the greatest minds in metaphysics, nutrition, and health.
Vanessa’s helped celebrities, business executives, and others transform their lives through a unique mind-body approach to health and nutrition. Vanessa holds a Master’s of Science in Nutrition, and a BCOM in Marketing, and consults with top local and international health and natural food companies.
