Though the role of vitamins in preserving memory is unclear, researchers know that vitamins B 12, folate, and B 6, are crucial for normal brain function.

A recent report in Neuropsychology shows that healthy people with a genetic predisposition to Alzheimer's disease (AD) do better on memory tests if they have adequate levels of vitamin B 12 than if they have low levels. The finding suggests that nutritional and genetic factors interact in cognitive function.

A Swedish study of people aged 75 screened participants for dementia, depression, or a genetic variant that increases the risk of AD.

Later, a battery of memory tests were taken. On that morning, researchers drew blood samples to measure levels of vitamin B 12 and folate. People with low levels of vitamin B 12 did worse on the memory tests.

Poultry and fortified cereals are good sources of folate, and vitamins B 12 and B 6.