CAUSES OF VITAMIN B12 DEFICIENCY, SYMPTOMS TO WATCH OUT FOR, AND HOW TO INCREASE LEVELS NATURALLY

Vitamins are important for better functioning of your body. Vitamin B12 is essential for nerve function, red blood cell production, and DNA synthesis. Its deficiency can lead to serious health consequences including, fatigue, neurological problems, and even heart disease.

Low B12 levels can progress to neurological damage, affecting different parts of the nervous system, says  Dr Pankaj Chaudhary, Senior Consultant-Internal Medicine at Max Super Speciality Hospital, Vaishali. “Certain groups, like vegetarians, older adults, and those with digestive disorders, are at higher risk," he explains.

Vitamin B12 is primarily found in animal-based foods, making vegetarians and vegans particularly susceptible to deficiency. "Since B12 is not naturally present in plant-based foods, those on strict vegetarian or vegan diets must rely on fortified foods or supplements to meet their needs," says Dr Chaudhary.

Also read | Vitamin B12 deficiency: Include these 6 foods in your daily diet to beat fatigue, anaemia

Malabsorption is another major cause. Conditions like pernicious anemia, Crohn’s disease, and celiac disease can hinder B12 absorption in the stomach and intestines. "Even if someone consumes enough B12, their body might not be able to absorb it properly, especially in cases of digestive disorders or after gastrointestinal surgeries," Dr Chaudhary adds.

Ageing also plays a role, as older adults often produce less stomach acid, which is needed to extract B12 from food. “Long-term use of certain medications, such as metformin (for diabetes) and proton pump inhibitors (for acid reflux), can further reduce absorption. Additionally, excessive alcohol consumption can damage the stomach lining, making it harder to absorb essential nutrients like B12,” he says.

A prolonged lack of vitamin B12 can have severe health implications, ranging from neurological issues to cardiovascular risks, says Dr Chaudhary.

Also read | Vitamin B 12 deficiency and health: 6 hidden effects of low B12 on the nervous system

Vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to tingling sensations in the hands and feet, memory issues, cognitive decline, and, in extreme cases (Image: Canva)

He explains what happens when the body doesn’t get enough B12:

• Neurological problems: B12 is crucial for nerve function. Deficiency can lead to tingling sensations in the hands and feet, memory issues, cognitive decline, and, in extreme cases, dementia. "Many neurological symptoms caused by B12 deficiency can be mistaken for age-related conditions, delaying diagnosis," cautions Dr Chaudhary.

• Megaloblastic anemia: B12 deficiency impairs red blood cell production, leading to megaloblastic anemia. This results in weakness, fatigue, shortness of breath, and pale skin.

• Mental health concerns: Mood disorders like depression, irritability, and even severe psychiatric symptoms such as psychosis have been linked to low B12 levels.

• Increased heart disease risk: B12 helps regulate homocysteine, an amino acid linked to heart disease and stroke. A deficiency can elevate homocysteine levels, increasing cardiovascular risk.

• Reproductive and pregnancy complications: Low B12 levels can cause infertility and complications during pregnancy, including birth defects and developmental issues in babies. Pregnant and breastfeeding women, especially those on vegetarian diets, should monitor their B12 intake.

• Vision loss: Severe deficiency can damage the optic nerve, leading to blurred vision or even permanent vision loss if untreated.

Also read | Vitamin B12 foods: Include these essential sources in your healthy diet

Tips to prevent and treat B12 deficiency

• Dietary choices: Consume B12-rich foods like meat, fish, eggs, dairy, and fortified cereals.
• Supplements: Recommended for vegans, vegetarians, and individuals with absorption issues.
• B12 injections: Necessary for those with severe deficiency or absorption problems.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.

2025-04-03T06:53:17Z