A prospective cohort study found that higher parental vitamin B12 and maternal RBC folate levels before and after conception, respectively, were associated with lower birth defect risk. This suggests that the nutritional status of both parents during the periconceptional period may play a role in preventing birth defects.
Researchers discovered that bacteriophages play a critical role in distributing nutrients, promoting microbial diversity, and supporting gut health by releasing vitamin B12. The study found that phage infection is necessary for B12 release, and the nutrient specifically drives growth in dependent microbes.
A global study found that a group of bacteria, CAG-170, consistently appeared in high numbers in the gut microbiomes of healthy individuals. This species has the capacity to produce Vitamin B12 and break down carbohydrates, suggesting it plays a crucial role in maintaining human health.
A large meta-analysis of over 48,000 children found that well-planned plant-based diets can support healthy growth and even offer additional health benefits for children. However, the study also highlights risks of deficiencies in key nutrients such as vitamin B12 and zinc if not obtained through fortified foods or supplements.
Researchers found that supplements of B vitamins B6, B9, and B12, as well as choline, slowed down damage to the optic nerve in glaucoma. This was observed in experiments on mice and rats with glaucoma, where eye pressure was left untreated.
Research suggests that higher levels of essential minerals such as copper, manganese, and vitamin B12 during pregnancy may reduce the risk of developing high blood pressure in middle age. The study analyzed data from over 500 women and found a significant association between these mineral levels and lower blood pressure risk.
A new study published in Annals of Neurology found that lower concentrations of vitamin B12 in healthy, older adults led to signs of neurological and cognitive deficiency. These individuals showed slower processing speeds, brain lesions, and delayed responses to visual stimuli compared to those with higher B12 levels.
A pooled data analysis of 132 studies involving 52,501 participants found that 45% of people with type 2 diabetes have a micronutrient deficiency. Vitamin D was the most common deficiency, affecting 60.5% of those with the condition.
A study of 831 pregnant women found that only 36% adhere to folic acid supplementation recommendations, with low folate and vitamin B12 status detected in nearly half. Deficiencies can cause miscarriage, malformations, and other health problems.
Researchers discovered that vitamin B12 reduces the risk of developing different types of pancreatitis by strongly associating with reduced risk. Vitamin B12 also displays protective effects on acinar cells from necrosis during early stages of acute pancreatitis and promotes tissue repair.
A new study found significant intake inadequacies for nearly all evaluated micronutrients, with iodine and vitamin E deficiencies being the most prevalent. The researchers estimated inadequate intakes were higher for women than men in some countries, highlighting a need for targeted dietary interventions.
A new Australian study found a strong link between low magnesium levels and high homocysteine, leading to increased DNA damage and susceptibility to Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, gastrointestinal diseases, cancers, and diabetes. Wholegrains, dark leafy vegetables, nuts, beans, and dark chocolate are rich in magnesium.
Researchers discovered that two species of marine bacteria work together to produce vitamin B12, essential for metabolism and survival of many marine organisms. The bacteria release building blocks into the water, which are then combined to form the vitamin through a complex process involving viral infection.
Women with selected rheumatic diseases experience a higher prevalence of childlessness, while risks for pre-eclampsia, low birth weight, and preterm delivery are increased for many conditions. Men with rheumatic conditions also face a higher risk of childlessness, although the impact on fertility varies among different diseases.
A new study on Antarctic algae reveals that they can survive without vitamin B12, a finding with significant implications for climate change and the carbon cycle. The algae, Phaeocystis antarctica, has a fusion B12-independent methionine synthase protein that enables it to adapt to low B12 availability.
Researchers from UC Davis School of Medicine and MIND Institute found that imbalances in folic acid and vitamin B12 can alter brain development in mice. High folic acid intake, even within recommended guidelines, may cause neurodevelopmental issues in offspring.
A recent study found that nearly all pregnant women have low levels of essential vitamins and minerals, with some developing deficiencies in late pregnancy. Supplementing with over-the-counter multivitamins significantly reduced nutrient deficiencies before and during pregnancy.
Researchers found that prenatal vitamins provided short-term benefits, while postnatal vitamins offered sustained impacts on breast milk B-12 adequacy. Both types of supplements supported healthy growth and development in infants.
Researchers at IRB Barcelona found that vitamin B12 is essential for cellular reprogramming and tissue repair, improving reprogramming efficiency. The study also shows promise for treating ulcerative colitis by supplementing with vitamin B12.
A recent study found a compelling link between vitamin B12 deficiency and chronic inflammation, which can lead to various health problems. The research revealed an inverse relationship between vitamin B12 levels and inflammatory markers in humans and mice, suggesting that higher vitamin B12 levels may lower inflammatory markers.
A large UK case series reveals a predominance of young Asian men among those with nitrous oxide-induced myeloneuropathy, suggesting genetic or social factors. The study found that these patients often experienced severe symptoms such as pins and needles, bladder difficulties, and poor balance.
SourceBMJ Group·JournalJournal of Neurology Neurosurgery & Psychiatry·TypeObservational study·DateMay 30, 2023
Researchers at Duke-NUS Medical School found that high levels of homocysteine in the liver correlate with severity of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis. Supplementing vitamin B12 and folic acid reversed inflammation and fibrosis in preclinical models.
A study found that B12 deficiency is widespread among young children in low-income countries, leading to poor motor development and anaemia. Daily B12 supplements are crucial for brain development, but food relief programs often fail to provide sufficient amounts.
Beneficial gut microbes transfer genes to acquire vitamin B12, increasing their ability to survive. This process, called bacterial sex, allows them to form a tube that DNA can pass through to another cell, demonstrating the horizontal gene exchange among microbes.
Scientists at Baylor College of Medicine identified two rare inherited vitamin B12 conditions that share the same gene but exhibit distinct clinical features. The study found that additional genes, including RONIN and HCFC1, are affected, leading to a more complex syndrome.
Researchers have developed plant-based gummy candies packed with vitamins B12 and D3, addressing nutritional deficiencies in vegan and vegetarian diets. The new product was well-received by taste testers, paving the way for more nutritious food options.
Researchers found that vitamin B12 supplementation improved movement in worms with Alzheimer's-like symptoms, suggesting a potential link between diet and disease progression. The team also discovered that vitamin B12 relies on an enzyme called methionine synthase to work, and its effects are limited to those with dietary deficiencies.
Researchers found that fortified tea with folate and vitamin B12 can increase serum levels of these essential nutrients in Indian women. The study showed significant average increases in serum folate and vitamin B12 levels, as well as improved haemoglobin levels, after 2 months of daily consumption.
A new Irish study challenges claims that high blood levels of folate increase the risk of poor cognition in older adults. The study found no evidence of adverse effects, while higher folate levels were associated with better cognitive function in older adults.
Scientists discovered a novel transport protein in TB bacteria that imports vitamin B12 and bleomycin with a large water-filled cavity. This non-selective transporter may be common in bacteria and human cells, offering new insights into tuberculosis physiology and potential treatment strategies.
Pregnant women with low vitamin B12 levels experience increased fat production and reduced breakdown, predisposing them to obesity. A recent study found that vitamin B12 deficiency impairs fat cell metabolism, leading to increased inflammation and impaired metabolic function.
A young patient's blindness was caused by a 'junk food' diet lacking essential vitamins and minerals. Researchers recommend clinicians consider nutritional optic neuropathy in patients with unexplained vision symptoms and poor diets.
A study by Mayo Clinic researchers found that micronutrient deficiencies are common in adults diagnosed with celiac disease. The most frequent deficiency was zinc, observed in 59.4% of patients, while vitamin D, iron, copper, vitamin B12, and folate were also prevalent.
A team of scientists has located the body's largest cell receptor, a mysterious structure that plays a crucial role in vitamin B12 absorption. The discovery, published in Nature Communications, sheds light on why people with specific genetic changes struggle to absorb the essential nutrient.
A new study suggests that regular vitamin B12 screening in metformin-treated type-2 diabetes patients can reduce the risk of irreversible nerve damage. The study found that nearly 70% of patients were not being checked for vitamin B12 levels, despite a link to peripheral nerve damage.
A new study by researchers from Trinity College Dublin has found that a substantial number of adults over 50 are deficient in vitamin B12 and folate. The prevalence of low or deficient folate status increases with age, and is more common among smokers, the obese, and those from lower socio-economic backgrounds.
Researchers have discovered that common garden cress can absorb and store vitamin B12, a crucial nutrient for vegetarians and vegans. The study provides a promising solution to address the global challenge of providing a nutrient-complete vegetarian diet.
Scientists at McGill University Health Centre and the University of Lorraine discovered a new cause of cblC, a rare condition affecting vitamin B12 processing. The study found epimutation, a gene modification causing silencing of one copy of the MMACHC gene, leading to severe health problems.
A laboratory study found that a diet rich in folic acid and vitamins can impair the cognitive skills of offspring mice. The findings suggest that epigenetic changes in the paternal genome can be transferred to the next generation, potentially affecting human health.
Scientists have found that vitamin B12 controls 41 different proteins in a bacterium, regulating folate, ubiquinone, and methionine metabolism. This discovery highlights the importance of B12 in shaping microbial communities and their impact on human health.
A study of 11,216 pregnancies across 11 countries found that low levels of vitamin B12 are associated with a 21% increased risk of preterm birth. Vegans and vegetarians are particularly vulnerable to vitamin B12 deficiency without supplementation.
Researchers have discovered that vitamin B-12 exists in two forms in the oceans, with cyanobacteria producing a "pseudo" version that's not usable by other organisms. This finding has implications for how algae and other marine life access this essential nutrient.
A novel optical sensor has been developed to detect vitamin B12 in human blood serum, enabling early intervention and tracking of levels in high-risk patients. The device uses Raman spectroscopy to produce a unique optical fingerprint of vitamin B12, offering a promising first step towards a point-of-care solution.
A study found that high folate consumption is associated with increased risk of peripheral neuropathy in older adults with a specific genetic variant. The researchers recommend keeping folate intake close to the recommended amounts and obtaining nutrients from a balanced diet.
Researchers found that high levels of folate and vitamin B12 after giving birth double and triple the risk of developing an autism spectrum disorder. The study analyzed data from 1,391 mother-child pairs and recommends optimal folate levels to ensure offspring's health.
A Finnish study found that vegans often follow an unbalanced diet, leading to deficiencies in vitamin B12, D, selenium, iodine, and essential fatty acids. Vegans tend to use recommended supplements, such as calcium-fortified drinks and vitamin D supplements, but may need closer monitoring of their nutrient intake.
Researchers identify and map a light-sensing protein that uses vitamin B12 to regulate gene expression in response to light exposure. The discovery expands the biological role of vitamin B12 and offers insights into novel modes of gene regulation.
A new study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that vitamin B12 supplements offer no benefits for neurological or cognitive function in older people with moderate vitamin B12 deficiency. Researchers tested 201 participants aged over 75 years who received either a vitamin B12 supplement or a placebo, and found...
A new study published in Neurology suggests that taking vitamin B12 and folic acid supplements may not reduce the risk of memory and thinking problems. The study involved 2,919 people with high blood levels of homocysteine and found no significant difference between those who took supplements and those who did not.
Researchers at UBC have developed a novel method to test for vitamin B12 deficiency, which can be done with just one drop of blood. The new method is sensitive enough to detect B12 levels in newborn babies and large populations, offering a convenient alternative to traditional blood tests.
A new study by University of Waterloo researchers reveals that a single group of microorganisms may be responsible for most of the world's vitamin B12 production in the oceans. This discovery has significant implications for the global carbon cycle and climate change.
Researchers have discovered a new pathway between the gut, liver, and bone that regulates bone mass. Vitamin B12 deficiency leads to stunted growth and osteoporosis in offspring of mice, but supplementation restores bone health.
A Swedish study of 1,000 men aged 75 found that low vitamin B12 levels increased the risk of fractures by up to 70% in six years. The researchers used a new method to measure vitamin B12 uptake and found that physical activity and quitting smoking can help prevent fractures.
A study published in JAMA found that long-term use of common heartburn and ulcer medications is associated with a higher risk of vitamin B12 deficiency. Patients who took these medications for more than two years had a 65% increase in their risk of deficiency, compared to those taking lower doses.
A large population-based study found that long-term use of proton pump inhibitors and histamine 2 receptor antagonists increases the risk of vitamin B12 deficiency. The association was strongest in women and younger age groups with potent acid suppression, and decreased after discontinuation.
Researchers found that vitamin B supplements lowered stroke risk in all studies, with some benefit even when taking folic acid. However, the severity of strokes and risk of death from stroke were not affected by supplement use.
Researchers identify a rare genetic disorder, cblX, linked to Vitamin B12 metabolism, which can cause severe health problems. The discovery was made possible by studying a Colorado boy named Max Watson and his family, who participated in the study.
A study found that adding folate and vitamin B12 to antipsychotic medication improved negative symptoms of schizophrenia, particularly in individuals carrying specific genetic variants. The results suggest a potential new avenue for treatment, as well as the need for personalized medical approaches.
A new study has found a significant prevalence of vitamin B12 deficiency among refugees arriving in Australia. The research highlights the importance of regular screening to prevent severe malnourishment and its consequences, including developmental defects in unborn children.
A new study suggests that lack of nutrients like folate and vitamin B12 may be associated with specific subtypes of depression. Melancholic depressive symptoms were linked to lower folate intake, while non-melancholic symptoms were tied to an increased risk of metabolic syndrome.