Did you know that Vitamin B12 plays a crucial role in supporting brain health and cognitive functions? Not only does this vital supplement assist with producing DNA and red blood cells, it also helps ensure the proper function of our nervous systems. When our B12 levels are inadequate, our focus, memory, and overall mental clarity are affected negatively, which makes it extremely important to ensure you're getting enough B12. Studies have also shown the positive impact B12 can have when combatting depression by delaying the onset of this debilitating disease and can even enhance the effectiveness of antidepressants. Many individuals suffering from Seasonal Affective Disorder, a type of depression that usually occurs during the fall and winter months, have had excellent results combating the condition with an increased intake of B12. 

Other concerning results of insufficient B12 can include atrophy of the brain, which is essentially the loss of brain cells, and leads to shrinkage of the brain. This particular condition can lead to dementia and, in some cases, even diminishes a person's life span. There is an increased risk of stroke and other neurodegenerative diseases when an individual has elevated levels of homocysteine, which is an amino acid and a marker of inflammation. Making sure one's B12 levels are sufficient is an excellent step in the right direction as it helps lower homocysteine levels, which in turn leads to protecting the brain. 

In order to obtain optimal brain function, at A Mind for All Seasons we want to see our clients' B12 levels above 1,000 pg/ml. There are many foods rich with B12 such as beef, lamb, and poultry. Fish and seafood are excellent choices as well when you select options like salmon, trout, clams, oysters, and muscles. Eggs can also be a valuable source of B12 and several dairy products can help increase your B12 intake as well. Milk, including many almond, soy, and oat milks, are fortified with B12. When it comes to cheese, stay away from processed "cheese products", which aren't really even cheese anyway, and opt for other choices like mozzarella and Swiss. Yogurt is another great selection, but be sure to pay attention to added sugars and other processed ingredients. 
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​At AMFAS, we are also advocates for taking a quality B12 supplement, which are available in many forms including sublingual drops taken under the tongue, injections, and tablets/capsules. However, there are some individuals who have a genetic challenge methylating, or converting, B vitamins, which means that even if they take their B12 supplements regularly, it is never converted into a form that can be used by their cells very effectively. If you're wondering if you might have an issue with methylation, email us at info@amindforallseasons.com and we'll be happy to help!​
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​We've only just touched on the many benefits of B12 and, if you'd like even more information on this supercharged supplement, we encourage you to read this recent article by Healthline that delves deeper into several other positive effects of B12 and, as always, feel free to email us at info@amindforallseasons.com for more info or with any questions. 
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​Don't forget to take your B12 today!