For Various Metabolic activities in the body Vitamin B12, or Cobalamin is so essential. so if this nutrient is lacking in the human body can result in many health issues. Vitamin B12 Deficiency can cause anemia and damage to the nervous system. so read this article till the end to get to know the many causes and symptoms of low vitamin B12.
Vitamin B12 Deficiency:-
Its deficiency is caused due to an insufficient amount of cobalamin in the body. This can manifest as a reaction to the loss of intrinsic gastric factor that helps absorb B12 components from the food source.
It affects the nervous system function and restricts the red blood cell production in the body. anemia caused due to the lack of vitamin B12 and many other health issues in humans. those women who go through many menstruation pain and fatigue have this issue in common. Pernicious anemia can also cause Vitamin B12 deficiency when a person’s immune system reduces the absorption of cobalamin.
Also, poor diet and some medications also give result in a deficiency of vitamin B12. so it is compulsory to know the vitamin B12 deficiency symptoms so that anyone opts for medical attention immediately.
Vitamin B12 Deficiency Symptoms:-
Below are some common symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency:-
- Psychosis
- Memory Loss
- Constipation
- Pale yellow skin color
- Mouth Ulcers
- Numbness and sensations in the hands, legs, or feet
- Mood swings
- Depression
- Vision disturbances
- walk difficulty
- Thinking difficulty
- Confusion
- Dementia
- Anxiety
The above conditions can be increased over time and can provide new other diseases
In some cases, one may have no symptoms at all of this deficiency. A vitamin B12 diet is recommended as a precaution.
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What Causes Vitamin B12 Deficiency?:-
Pernicious Anaemia:-
Vitamin B12 needs to be absorbed by the body. For this, it binds with an intrinsic factor protein in the stomach. Typically, the cells in the stomach lining produce this protein. However, in conditions with pernicious anemia, the body’s immune system erroneously attacks these cells. This prevents the intrinsic factors from getting absorbed and binding with vitamin B12.
It is an autoimmune condition that affects individuals over 50 years old. Pernicious anemia is a common disease in women.
In certain cases, genetic conditions can be a reason for the disease. It affects patients with autoimmune conditions like Addison’s disease and Hashimoto’s thyroiditis.
Disorders in the Stomach and Intestines:-
Individuals with stomach and intestinal problems are prone to suffer from vitamin B12 deficiency. In certain cases, surgeries can also create the risk of vitamin B12 deficiency.
Intestinal problems:Â The conditions where the lining of the digestive tract is inflamed can generate vitamin B12 deficiency risks. Conditions like celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, chronic tropical sprue, etc., are some conditions that may lead to this deficiency.
Stomach conditions:Â Individuals suffering from atrophic gastritis have a higher risk of developing vitamin B12 deficiency. This disease causes thinning of the stomach lining and raises the risk of Helicobacter pylori bacterial infections.
Surgery: In certain conditions, surgical procedures conducted to remove part or all of the intestine or stomach can prevent sufficient absorption of vitamin B12.
Inadequate Dietary Intake
Diet plays a vital role in managing the nutritional requirements of humans. The lack of vitamin B12-rich food can lead to deficiency.
Some of the issues caused by this deficiency are discussed next. Keep reading
Health Issues Caused by Vitamin B12 Deficiency?:-
There are lots of Health Issues caused by Vitamin B12 deficiency. these vary from person to person
- Neurological complications:Â Insufficient vitamin B12 levels can give rise to severe neurological issues. This includes memory loss, pain in body parts, poor vision, peripheral neuropathy, difficulty in speaking and walking, etc.
- Neural tube weaknesses- The fetus is at higher risk if a pregnant woman suffers from vitamin B12 deficiency. This can lead to premature birth or increase the chances of congenital disabilities like spina bifida.
- Infertility-Â Vitamin B12 deficiency can affect a woman’s reproductive capability. This leads to issues with conceiving. However, the conditions are reversible with proper treatment.
- Stomach cancer- Pernicious anemia, one of the leading causes of vitamin B12 deficiency, increases the chances of stomach cancer.
How to Overcome Vitamin B12 Deficiency?
- An individual should consult a doctor and get the vitamin B12 levels checked.
- Individuals with celiac and Crohn’s disease that restrict vitamin B12 absorption should consult a doctor. They should follow the instructions and adhere to the medications prescribed.
- Strict vegans and individuals over 50 years old should consult a dietician and follow the suggested meal plan. They can increase the consumption of cereals, bread, fortified breakfast cereal, fresh fruits, and vegetables.
How Long Does It Take to Cure Vitamin B12 Deficiency?:-
Individuals who maintain a proper diet and healthy lifestyle are likely to overcome vitamin B12 deficiency faster. It can take anywhere from 6 to 12 months to completely recover from the deficiency.
Vitamin B12 deficiency is a serious issue that can still be avoided by maintaining a healthy lifestyle. The first step to achieving this goal is consuming nutritious food.
So, eat healthily and stay active!
FAQ:-
Q1:- Name some sources of plant milk that are rich in vitamin B12.
Ans:- Almond milk, soy milk, coconut milk, cashew nut drink, etc., are great sources of vitamin B12.
Q2:- What are the top food sources of vitamin B12 for vegans?
Ans:- fortified plant milk, cereals, algae, seaweed, tempeh, mushroom, etc., are rich in vitamin B12.
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