Low memory, attention? Blame vitamin B12 deficiency, hyperthyroidism MorungExpress

New Delhi, June 3 (IANS) People who experience problems with memory, attention, focus and concentration may have vitamin B12 deficiency as well as hyperthyroidism, health experts said Monday.

According to a recent study published in Frontiers in Endocrinology, nearly one in four patients with hypothyroidism or subclinical hypothyroidism suffer from a vitamin B12 deficiency.

“Hypothyroidism and vitamin B12 deficiency can cause acceleration of degenerative or ageing-related processes,” Dr M. Wali, Senior Consultant, Department of Medicine, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, told IANS.

“Hypothyroidism is commonly associated with vitamin B12 deficiency. If left untreated, hypothyroidism can also contribute to cognitive impairment,” said Dr. Sudhir Kumar, of Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, Hyderabad, in a post on X.com.

Experts have urged both vegetarians and non-vegetarians to monitor their B12 levels as well as their thyroid levels.

Dr. Wali said most patients today are deficient in vitamin B12.

“Hyperthyroidism can also cause vitamin B12 deficiency, sometimes due to increased use and therefore the process of nerve conduction and transmission of nerve impulses is delayed.

“These processes can be accelerated among patients over the age of 55,” the doctor said.

Dr Wali called for improved vitamin B12 testing in patients over the age of 55, and if deficient, take medication “under supervision”.

“Keep your thyroid normal and test every three months,” he advised.

“People who have memory and other cognitive difficulties without any obvious cause should be tested for vitamin B12 deficiency and hypothyroidism,” added Dr. Sudhir.