Vitamin B12 is essential for various body functions that include the formation of red blood cells, nerve function, and DNA synthesis. A deficiency in this vital nutrient can lead to several health issues, including anemia and nerve damage.
What is Vitamin B12?
Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is one of the essential B vitamins required by the body. Its primary function is to help make red blood cells and keep the nervous system healthy.
The vitamin works together with other B vitamins to perform a range of functions in the body, including DNA synthesis and cell division.
What are the Symptoms of Vitamin B12 Deficiency?
The symptoms of a vitamin B12 deficiency can vary, and some people may not experience any symptoms at all. However, some common symptoms include:.
- Weakness and fatigue
- Dizziness and lightheadedness
- Pale or yellowish skin
- Irregular heartbeats
- Numbness or tingling in the hands and feet
- Muscle weakness
- Mood changes and depression
- Poor memory
- Inflammation of the tongue and mouth
- Difficulty walking
What Causes Vitamin B12 Deficiency?
There are several possible causes of vitamin B12 deficiency, which are:.
Vegan or Vegetarian Diet
People who follow a vegan or vegetarian diet are at higher risk of developing a vitamin B12 deficiency as the vitamin is primarily found in animal products.
Vegans and vegetarians should consume fortified foods or take vitamin B12 supplements to prevent a deficiency.
Autoimmune Diseases
Some autoimmune diseases like pernicious anemia attack the stomach lining, which makes it difficult for the body to absorb the vitamin B12. People with autoimmune diseases can develop a vitamin B12 deficiency if left untreated.
Gastrointestinal Disorders
Gastrointestinal conditions like Crohn’s disease, celiac disease, or inflammatory bowel disease can cause the body to have trouble absorbing vitamin B12 from the food consumed.
Surgery to remove parts of the stomach or intestine where the vitamin is absorbed can also lead to a deficiency.
Intestinal Parasites
Intestinal parasites like tapeworm consume vitamin B12, making it unavailable for the body to absorb. People living in developing countries with poor hygiene and sanitation are at risk of developing infections, leading to a vitamin B12 deficiency.
Alcoholism
Alcohol damages the stomach and liver, which reduces the ability of the body to absorb vitamin B12.
Longtime alcoholics experience repeated bouts of vitamin B12 deficiency and other vitamin deficiencies due to their poor diet and unhealthy lifestyle habits.
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Vitamin B12 Deficiency Symptoms
Medications
Some medications like metformin, used to treat type 2 diabetes, reduce the absorption of vitamin B12 in the gut.
People who take antacids to reduce stomach acid can also develop a deficiency as acid is required to release vitamin B12 from food during digestion.
Aging
As people age, the stomach produces less acid, and the digestive system becomes less efficient, reducing the body’s ability to absorb vitamin B12.
The elderly are at higher risk of developing a deficiency as the body’s ability to store and use the vitamin reduces with age.
Genetic Factors
A genetic disorder known as hereditary vitamin B12 malabsorption can cause the body to have trouble absorbing the vitamin, leading to a deficiency. This condition is usually diagnosed in infancy or early childhood.
Surgical Removal of the Stomach
People who undergo weight loss surgery that involves removing the stomach or part of it are at higher risk of developing a vitamin B12 deficiency.
These surgeries affect the stomach’s ability to produce acid that helps the body absorb the vitamin.
Malnutrition
A lack of vitamin B12 in the diet can lead to a deficiency. People who have an eating disorder or consume a diet lacking in important nutrients are at high risk of developing a deficiency.
Infants who are exclusively breastfed by a mother who follows a vegan or vegetarian diet may also develop a deficiency.
How to Treat Vitamin B12 Deficiency?
The treatment for vitamin B12 deficiency depends on the cause and severity of the condition. The most common treatment options include:.
- Vitamin B12 supplements that can be taken as tablets or injections
- A diet that includes foods rich in vitamin B12, like animal products, fortified cereals, and soy products
- Treating underlying conditions that cause a deficiency, like autoimmune diseases or gastrointestinal disorders
Conclusion
Vitamin B12 is an essential nutrient required by the body for various functions. A deficiency in the vitamin can lead to several health issues and require immediate treatment.
It is essential to identify the cause of the deficiency and take adequate measures to prevent and treat the condition.
