Deficiency: Symptoms, causes, and solutions.
Vitamin B12, also known as Cobalamin, is a vital nutrient that plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy nerve cells, supporting brain function, and aiding in the production of DNA and red blood cells. Despite its importance, many people suffer from Vitamin B12 deficiency, often without realising it.
What is Vitamin B12?
Vitamin B12 is a water-soluble vitamin found in animal-based foods, such as meat, fish, eggs and dairy. Its essential for numerous bodily functions, particularly the formation of red blood cells and the maintenance of the nervous system. Since the human body cannot naturally produce B12, we rely on external sources through diet or supplementation to maintain a healthy bodily function consisting of enough vitamin B12.
Symptoms of Vitamin B12 Deficiency
- Fatigue: One of the most common signs is persistent tiredness or weakness due to impaired red blood cell production.
- Pale Skin: Without sufficient B12, the production of healthy red blood cells is compromised, leading to Anaemia, which can cause paleness or a yellowish tint to the skin.
- Nerve Issues: B12 is essential for maintaining the protective covering of the nerve (myelin). Deficiency can cause tingling or numbness in the hands and feet, balance issues and muscle weakness.
- Cognitive Problems: Memory loss, difficulty concentrating and mood changes such as depression or irritability may arise.
- Mouth Sores: Painful tongue inflammation and mouth ulcers are common signs.
- Breathlessness: Low red blood cells can cause oxygen deprivation, leading to dizziness or shortness of breath.
Causes of Vitamin B12 Deficiency
Several factors can lead to B12 deficiency
- Dietary Insufficiency: People who follow a vegan or vegetarian diet are at a higher risk since plant-based foods naturally lack significant amounts of B12.
- Pernicious Anaemia: This autoimmune disorder interferes with the body’s ability to absorb B12 by attacking the stomach cells responsible for producing intrinsic factor, a protein that helps absorb B12.
- Malabsorption Disorders: Conditions such as Crohn’s disease, Celiac disease, or bacterial overgrowth can impair the absorption of B12 in the small intestine.
- Medications: Certain medications, such as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) for acid reflux or metformin for diabetes can interfere with B12 absorption over time.
- Age: As we age, our bodies produce less stomach acid, making it harder to realise B12 from food.
How to diagnose Vitamin B12 Deficiency
If you suspect a B12 deficiency, a blood test is advised to measure your B12 levels.
Vitall Blood Testing available at KK Clinic
Treating Vitamin B12 Deficiency
B12 deficiency is easily treatable if caught early. By being aware of symptoms and risk factors and taking steps to address dietary or medical causes. If you suspect you’re deficient it is always recommended to seek medical advice and blood testing (Available at KK Clinic) to rule out any other medical conditions before proceeding with supplementation or Intra-Muscular Injections.