A pop sci article on B vitamins.
New research unveils vast influence of B vitamins on health and disease
Original source: How B Vitamins Can Affect Brain and Heart Health
To pinpoint a B12 deficiency requires two additional tests. One, called the MMA test, measures levels of methymalonic acid, an acid produced during certain aspects of metabolism requiring adequate B12. “It can be elevated with even a mild B12 deficiency, indicating a potential higher risk of dementia,” says Jacques.
A second test measures levels of an amino acid, homocysteine, which is also a byproduct of metabolism requiring B12. If only homocysteine levels are elevated, a folate deficiency may be the problem. If both MMA and homocysteine are high, a B12 deficiency is the likely culprit.
If a patient presents with neurological issues or signs of dementia, conducting all three tests will narrow down if a B vitamin deficiency is involved-and which B vitamin it is.
Based on Mendelian randomization studies, I’m not sure it’s causal though: What are your homocysteine levels? What have you done to reduce it? Why isn't it part of PhenoAge or aging.ai clocks? - #156 by adssx
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