The majority of people get their daily intake of Vitamin B12 through animal products such as eggs, chicken, beef, pork, etc. However, sometimes we don’t hit our recommended daily amount of Vitamin B12. Over time this can lead to a Vitamin B12 deficiency which can cause certain health conditions which can be serious if left untreated.
A balanced diet can help prevent a deficiency of B12 Vitamin. Vegetarians who only eat plant-based foods may miss out on getting the right amount of Vitamin B12 which comes primarily in animal products. A doctor may also recommend health supplements or a Vitamin B12 injection if a person has very low B12 levels due to diet, Crohn’s disease, pernicious anaemia, or other conditions that affect their ability to absorb vitamin B12.
In this article, we will explain Vitamin B12 deficiency, its symptoms, and the most effective treatment options. Keep reading to learn more.
What Is Vitamin B12 Deficiency?
Vitamin B12 is essential for creating and maintaining nerves and red blood cells. helps create DNA and supports the nervous system. Without treatment, vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to anaemia as well as nerve and brain damage.
What Causes B12 Deficiency?
Low levels of vitamin B-12 can be caused by:
- Vitamin B-12 is mainly found in animal products, so people like vegetarians or vegans who don’t eat these types of foods may suffer from low Vitamin B12 levels.
- Pernicious anaemia.
- Gastric surgeries.
- Intestinal problems.
Vitamin B12 Deficiency Symptoms
If Vitamin B12 levels get low, there are some key symptoms to look out for.
Low levels of B12 can lead to:
- fatigue and weakness
- constipation
- loss of appetite and weight loss
- problems with balance
- depression
- problems with thinking
- a sore mouth or tongue
Treatment
Treating Vitamin B12 deficiency will depend largely on what is causing the vitamin deficiency.
The most common treatments for Vitamin B12 deficiency include:
- intramuscular injections
- oral medicine
- adding Vitamin B12 foods to the diet
Foods rich in Vitamin B12 include:
- clams
- beef liver
- fish: tuna, trout, and salmon
- nutritional yeast
- dairy products
- eggs
- fortified yeasts and other foods
Visit us for a Vitamin B12 injection to boost your Vitamin B12 levels to a healthy level. This will help prevent anaemia and other conditions with can lead to permanent damage to the nervous system. Schedule your appointment online with us today.
