About Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12 is a crucial nutrient essential for nerve and blood cell health, playing a vital role in a balanced diet. As our bodies don’t produce it naturally, we must obtain it from sources like meat, fish, milk, and eggs. Vegans, individuals with insufficient B12-rich foods, or those with absorption challenges like pernicious anaemia may be at risk of deficiency.
A deficiency in vitamin B12 can lead to severe symptoms, including fatigue, depression, nerve damage, muscle weakness, joint pain, and balance difficulties. In extreme cases, it may result in permanent nerve damage or megaloblastic anaemia, characterized by the development of large red blood cells causing profound fatigue.
Vitamin B12 Deficiency
While commonly associated with older adults, younger individuals can also experience B12 deficiency due to factors such as poor diets, vitamin malabsorption, specific medical conditions, or medications. Regular monitoring of vitamin levels is essential for everyone, particularly those at risk due to age or lifestyle choices like vegetarianism/veganism.
The most effective treatment for B12 deficiency involves a combination of dietary adjustments and supplementation. A well-balanced diet, including animal proteins or dairy, can generally meet B12 requirements. Vegans can opt for fortified foods or supplements if needed. In severe cases with absorption challenges, such as certain medical conditions or medications, vitamin B12 injections directly into the bloodstream offer rapid absorption to replenish lost vitamins.
