Evidence supporting the use of: Vitamin B12 (unspecified)
For the health condition: Concentration (poor)

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Vitamin B12 is an essential nutrient required for normal neurological function and the synthesis of DNA and red blood cells. Its deficiency is well known to cause a range of neuropsychiatric symptoms, including memory impairment, cognitive decline, and in severe cases, dementia. There is scientific validation that correcting a deficiency in vitamin B12 can improve cognitive symptoms such as poor concentration, particularly in individuals who are deficient. Observational studies and clinical reports show that people with low B12 levels may experience issues with attention, focus, and memory, and supplementation can reverse these symptoms if a deficiency is present.

However, there is limited evidence to suggest that vitamin B12 supplementation improves concentration in individuals with normal B12 status. Large randomized controlled trials in adults without deficiency have not shown significant cognitive benefits from B12 supplementation. Therefore, while use of vitamin B12 for poor concentration is scientifically justified in the context of deficiency, it is not broadly supported as a cognitive enhancer in the general population. The overall evidence rating for use in 'concentration (poor)' is moderate, primarily applying to those with clinical deficiency, and is rated 2/5 for the general population.

References: O'Leary F, Samman S. Vitamin B12 in health and disease. Nutrients. 2010 Mar;2(3):299-316. PMID: 22254022; Smith AD, et al. Homocysteine-lowering by B vitamins slows the rate of brain atrophy in mild cognitive impairment: a randomized controlled trial. PLoS One. 2010;5(9):e12244.

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