“Why B12 Matters More Than You Think”
Vitamin B12 is an essential nutrient that helps your body produce red blood cells, support nerve function, and maintain energy levels. However, many people unknowingly suffer from a Vitamin B12 deficiency—especially older adults, vegetarians, and those with specific medical conditions. Vitamin B12 Deficiency: Causes Symptoms & Treatment.
In fact, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) reports that Vitamin B12 deficiency affects around 6% of people under 60 and nearly 20% of individuals over 60 in the United States. This highlights the importance of recognizing the signs early and taking proactive steps to maintain adequate B12 levels.
What Causes Vitamin B12 Deficiency? Vitamin B12 Deficiency: Causes Symptoms & Treatment
Vitamin B12 occurs naturally in animal-based foods such as meat, dairy, eggs, and fish. As a result, one of the most common causes of deficiency is a lack of B12-rich foods, particularly in vegan or vegetarian diets.
In addition, malabsorption significantly contributes to Vitamin B12 deficiency. Conditions like pernicious anemia, celiac disease, and Crohn’s disease can impair the body’s ability to absorb B12 effectively. Moreover, as people age, their stomachs often produce less acid, which plays a crucial role in extracting B12 from food.
Certain medications also interfere with B12 absorption. For example, metformin—commonly prescribed for diabetes—and proton pump inhibitors used to treat acid reflux can both reduce the body’s ability to absorb this vital nutrient.
Signs and Symptoms of B12 Deficiency
The symptoms can appear gradually and may be mistaken for other issues. Common signs include:
- Fatigue or weakness
- Pale or yellow skin
- Numbness or tingling in hands and feet
- Memory loss or confusion
- Mood changes or depression
- Glossitis (inflamed tongue)
Left untreated, a severe B12 deficiency can lead to nerve damage or neurological problems.
How to Treat and Prevent It: Vitamin B12 Deficiency: Causes Symptoms & Treatment
Treatment depends on the cause. Most cases are treated with oral B12 supplements or injections for faster absorption. People with dietary deficiencies can benefit from eating more B12-rich foods or using fortified cereals and plant milks.
To prevent deficiency, individuals at risk should check their B12 levels regularly and speak with a healthcare provider before starting supplements.
NOTE: – IT IS ALWAYS RECOMMENDED TO CONSULT YOUR HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONAL. ALL DATA SHARED HERE ARE FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY.
