Chandigarh, Feb. 28 -- A study conducted by the Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER) has highlighted the adverse effect of Vitamin B12 deficiency on infants' brain development. The research found lower as well as middle class families at risk of Vitamin B12 deficiency, showing it is not limited to poverty driven. The study looked at 141 babies with Vitamin B12 deficiency by using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and standardised developmental tools, providing concrete evidence of B12's neurological effect. The study showed that infantile B12 deficiency presented with poor developmental, loss of milestones, lethargy and anemia in infants. More severely affected babies had darkening of skin and light coloured hair. Often untreated, these babies then develop tremors. Most of these babies are not thin and this leads to an erroneous belief of health. Nearly 60% have impaired brain volume manifesting as poor head growth. After treatment, the babies showed quick improvement in alertness and development. These outcomes affirm B12's therapeutic potential while highlighting that early intervention maximises reversibility, though effects on intellect, learning and behaviour may persist, the study mentioned. Vitamin B12 plays a significant role in red blood cell formation, DNA synthesis and the maintenance of a healthy nervous system. In adults, adequate B12 sustains energy levels, mood stability and cardiovascular health by preventing anemia and neural health. Untreated vitamin B12 deficiency in infants directly and adversely affects the brain growth potentially resulting in a long-term risk of poor learning and low intellect. A simple tablet of vitamin B12 can correct the deficiency....