There seems to be new evidence that Vitamin B12 (which is mainly found in milk, meat and fish) may help to prevent memory loss in old age. The University of Oxford study tested 107 volunteers over a five-year period. Their findings suggest that older people, with lower than average vitamin B12 levels, could be more than six times more likely to suffer memory loss.

Professor David Smith, who directs the Oxford Project to Investigate Memory and Ageing, said: "This study adds another dimension to our understanding of the effects of B vitamins on the brain; the rate of shrinkage of the brain as we age may be partly influenced by what we eat."

In conclusion, the report suggests that consuming more vitamin B12 by eating meat, fish, fortified cereals or milk (as part of a balanced diet) could help protect the brain. Liver and shellfish are particularly rich in vitamin B12.

Dr Susanne Sorensen, from the Alzheimer's Society said: "The best way to reduce your risk of developing dementia is to keep active, eat a balanced diet, don't smoke and visit your GP to get your blood pressure and cholesterol checked."

Vitamin B12. [BBC News 09-09-2008]