If you know someone who suffers from dementia, you know that it interferes with their ability to work, to participate in usual social activities, and to engage in healthy relationships with others. 

Dementia is becoming increasingly common. And while you may be familiar with its devastating effects, you may not know that a simple, diet-related prevention may help protect you and your loved ones.

Dementia, which is the most common cause of cognitive impairment, is defined as significant memory impairment and loss of intellectual functions. Symptoms include:

• Forgetfulness 
• Difficulties with familiar activities 
• Language problems 
• Problems with spatial and temporal orientation 
• Impaired capacity of judgment
• Problems with abstract thinking
• Leaving things behind 
• Mood swings and behavioral changes  
• Personality changes 
• Loss of initiative 

The vast majority of dementia cases are one of two types: Alzheimer’s disease or vascular dementia.

Early detection is the primary concern for Alzheimer’s disease and vascular dementia patients because any antidementia treatment—including vitamin supplementation—is not likely to reverse existing neuronal damage. The most we can hope for is to slow the progression or even to alter the course of the cognitive impairment.

While additional studies must be done to assess the effect of a healthy diet on cognitive impairment, many researchers suggest vitamin supplementation—especially of the B vitamins: B-12, B-6 and folic acid—to enhance nutritional status.