WHAT IS VITAMIN B12 DEFICIENCY?

Vitamin B12 deficiency is a condition in which the body does not have enough vitamin B12 (cobalamin) to function properly. Vitamin B12 is essential for:

• 🧠 Nerve health
• 🩸 Red blood cell production
• 🧬 DNA synthesis
• ⚡ Energy metabolism

Without enough B12, the body cannot produce healthy red blood cells, and the nervous system may be damaged.

Why Is Vitamin B12 Important?

Vitamin B12 helps:

1. Prevent anemia – It supports proper formation of red blood cells.
2. Maintain nerve function – It protects the myelin sheath around nerves.
3. Support brain function – Memory, concentration, and mood depend on adequate B12.
4. Convert food into energy – Works with other B vitamins in metabolism.

Causes of Vitamin B12 Deficiency

Common causes include:

1️ Poor Intake

• Strict vegetarian or vegan diet (B12 is mainly found in animal foods)
• Malnutrition

2️ Poor Absorption

• Pernicious anemia – An autoimmune condition affecting intrinsic factor
• Stomach surgery
• Long-term use of acid-reducing medication
• Digestive disorders like Crohn's disease

3️ Age-Related Decline

• Older adults often absorb less B12 due to reduced stomach acid.

Symptoms of Vitamin B12 Deficiency

Symptoms may develop slowly and include:

🩸 Anemia Symptoms

• Fatigue
• Weakness
• Shortness of breath
• Pale or yellowish skin

🧠 Neurological Symptoms

• Numbness or tingling in hands and feet
• Poor balance
• Memory problems
• Mood changes (depression, irritability)

⚠️ Long-term deficiency can cause permanent nerve damage if untreated.

Who Is at Higher Risk?

• Adults over 50
• Vegetarians and vegans
• People with digestive disorders
• People on long-term antacid or metformin therapy

How Is It Diagnosed?

A doctor may order:

• Blood test for B12 levels
• Complete blood count (CBC)
• Methylmalonic acid (MMA) test (more sensitive indicator)

How Is It Treated?

Treatment depends on severity:

• Oral B12 supplements
• High-dose tablets
• B12 injections (for severe deficiency or absorption issues)

Common dietary sources include:

• Meat
• Fish
• Eggs
• Dairy
• Fortified cereals