Vitamin B12 and Biological Aging

Vitamin B12, or cobalamin, is essential for key biological processes. It is involved in converting homocysteine to methionine, an amino acid vital for protein synthesis and various physiological functions. Vitamin B12 also aids in generating S-adenosylmethionine, which influences gene expression and metabolism.

Vitamin B12 deficiency is common among the elderly and those on vegan or vegetarian diets without supplements. Insufficiency also affects an unknown greater percentage of the population. Either situation can lead to accelerated biological aging.

A new study examined the relationship between serum Vitamin B12 levels and biomarkers related to biological aging:

Higher circulating vitamin B12 is associated with lower levels of inflammatory markers in individuals at high cardiovascular risk and in naturally aged mice

Te foundation of this study was a clinical trial that investigated the Mediterranean diet and its health impacts. Over 7,000 were part of the trial. This new study focused on 136 participants, particularly on their serum Vitamin B12 levels and the association with biomarkers including C-reactive protein (CRP). Complementary studies on naturally aged mice were conducted to strengthen the human study findings.

Study Results

The study observed an inverse relationship between serum Vitamin B12 levels and CRP in humans. Higher levels of vitamin B12 were linked to lower levels of this biomarker. Similar results were observed in the mouse model.

CRP relates significantly to biological aging. Biological aging, unlike chronological aging, reflects the physiological state of an organism and can be faster or slower than time lived. CRP is one of the biomarkers commonly used to calculate biological age by algorithms such as PhenoAge.

Elevated levels of CRP often indicate increased biological aging. CRP is associated with biological processes that impact cellular health, DNA repair, and systemic resilience. Understanding and managing CRP levels through dietary interventions, like adequate Vitamin B12 intake, could be crucial in slowing biological aging and promoting longevity.

Given the role of Vitamin B12 in potentially influencing biological aging through CRP management, it's vital to ensure sufficient intake. This study advocates for more research into Vitamin B12's mechanisms and clinical applications, particularly in aging populations. Adopting a balanced diet like the Mediterranean diet, which provides adequate vitamin B12, might be a practical approach to managing CRP and, consequently, mitigating the rate of biological aging.

Thrivous Clarity

Thrivous develops Clarity Daily Nootropic to enhance memory and focus. Each serving provides a clinical dose of Vitamin B12, along with complementary nutrients. As indicated by this study, Clarity may also help manage CRP levels and decrease the rate of biological aging. Clarity Daily Nootropic is available to purchase online now in the Thrivous store.