If you have a B12 deficiency, be careful! The damage may be permanent...

Even if vitamin B12 levels are considered normal, brain health can be at risk. According to a study conducted at the University of California, San Francisco, borderline or subnormal levels of vitamin B12 in blood tests can lead to cognitive decline and brain tissue damage in older adults.

Özkardeş, whose views on the research were shared, stated that vitamin B12 is closely related not only to anemia but also to nervous system health.

"Deficiency can lead to irreversible nerve cell damage. Especially in older individuals, if there are symptoms such as forgetfulness and slowed reflexes, B12 supplementation should be considered early," Özkardeş said.

Özkardeş noted that vitamin B12 is a critical nutrient for the healthy functioning of the nervous system, and that its deficiency can cause irreversible damage to nerve cells over time.

Özkardeş, who stated that low levels of B12, even if within the normal range, can have negative effects on brain health, made the assessment, "Especially in elderly individuals, if there are complaints such as forgetfulness, lack of attention and slowed reflexes, B12 levels should be evaluated more sensitively."

Özkardeş explained, "Especially in older individuals and patients with neurological complaints, not only blood tests but also clinical symptoms and functional markers should be considered. Initiating supplementation early in patients with low B12 levels can prevent cognitive decline and possible brain damage."