People experiencing unexplained memory problems may have a vitamin deficiency, according to the NHS. Thehealth service offers a comprehensive guide to healthy eating on its website, emphasising the importance of a balanced diet for good mental and physical health, based on science-backed recommendations.

The NHSalso highlights several possible vitamin deficiencies and the symptoms to watch for. According to the NHS, problems with your memory, understanding, or judgement can sometimes be caused by a vitamin B12 or folate deficiency.

"Vitamin B12 or B9 (commonly called folate) deficiency anaemia occurs when a lack of vitamin B12 or folate causes the body to produce abnormally large red blood cells that cannot function properly. Red blood cells carry oxygen around the body using a substance called haemoglobin.

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"Anaemia is the general term for having either fewer red blood cells than normal or having an abnormally low amount of haemoglobin in each red blood cell," the NHS explains.

The NHS continues: "Vitamin B12 and folate perform several important functions in the body, including keeping the nervous system healthy. A deficiency in either of these vitamins can cause a wide range of problems, including:

• extreme tiredness


• a lack of energy


• pins and needles


• a sore and red tongue


• mouth ulcers


• muscle weakness


• problems with your vision


• psychological problems, which can range from mild depression or anxiety to confusion and dementia


• problems with memory, understanding and judgement

"Some of these problems can also happen if you have a deficiency in vitamin B12 or folate but do not have anaemia."

Always see a GP if you have any health concerns or think you may have a vitamin B12 or folate deficiency. These conditions are normally diagnosed with a blood test, and the NHS says it's important they are treated as soon as possible.

While your GP will explain the best course of treatment for you, these conditions are often treated using injections or tablets. Some people might be able to help treat the condition by adjusting their diet.

According to the NHS, sources of vitamin B12 include meat, fish, eggs, and dairy products. Some foods are also specially fortified. Sources of folate include green vegetables, such as broccoli and peas.

Vitamin B12 or folate deficiency can be caused by certain medicines, pernicious anaemia, or a lack of these vitamins in your diet. The NHS says that diets that include meat, fish, and dairy products normally provide enough vitamin B12, but people who don't eat these foods regularly can become deficient.

However, people who take supplements should be aware that taking too much vitamin B12 could also be harmful. The NHS says taking 2mg or less of vitamin B12 per day in supplements is unlikely to cause any harm.