Britain's National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (which goes under the brilliant acronym: NICE) has issued guidelines on vitamin B12 deficiency. And, of course, this advice isn't just restricted to Brits!
As many as one in 10 over-75s (and one in 20 people aged between 60 and 74) could be experiencing fatigue, cognitive impairment and mental health issues, such as anxiety. And there's a reasonably good chance that this could be the consequence of not consuming enough B12-rich foods, which are primarily found in animal products such as meat, fish, eggs, milk and cheese.
Why is B12 important? Well, this vitamin is necessary to form red blood cells and DNA, as well as assisting in the development and function of brain and nerve cells. “I don’t think it’s understood as a condition that adults might be more at risk of getting as they age,” says Heidi Seage, the principal lecturer in health psychology at Cardiff Metropolitan University in Wales.
However, the good news is that you can boost your vitamin B12 intake by taking supplements or you can ensure that your diet includes plenty of fish, meat, dairy products and eggs. Some fortified cereals and Marmite are also rich in vitamin B12.
So, if you're experiencing brain fog and tiredness, it may be due to a lack of this superstar vitamin. Why not have a word with your doctor and see what they advise? The solution could be as simple as upping your intake of B12.