Vitamin B-12 supports various important biological activities, including brain health, neuron function, and blood cell synthesis. However, vitamin B-12 insufficiency is widespread. However, taking vitamin supplements can help in good health. You can monitor or visit fortis la femme Bangalore to check Vitamin B-12 levels in your system. A doctor might give a test based on the symptoms you present.
What exactly is vitamin B12?
Vitamin B12 is a necessary nutrient for the human body. It is a micronutrient, which means your body only needs a minimal quantity of it. Vitamin B12 is essential for creating red blood cells, the proper functioning of brain and nerve cells, and maintaining a healthy immune system.
It is a water-soluble vitamin that is also known as cobalamin. This water solubility implies that it can dissolve in water and enter the blood flow. Any excess B12 is eliminated in the urine. The shortage is uncommon because your body can retain vitamin B12 in the liver for several years. On the other hand, vegetarians may become deficient since plant meals do not contain vitamin B12. To avoid this, you should take vitamin B12 pills.
What signs indicate vitamin B12 deficiency?
Vitamin B12 deficiency can be a slow-developing condition, with symptoms appearing gradually and becoming more severe over time. It can also manifest itself in a very short period. Because of the wide range of symptoms that can occur due to a vitamin B12 deficiency, the issue is sometimes missed or misdiagnosed as something else. Symptoms of vitamin B12 insufficiency include the following:
- tingling, strange feelings, and numbness, in the body parts like hands, legs, or feet.
- Walking is difficult for me (staggering, balance problems)
- anemia
- a tongue that is swollen and irritated
- Memory loss or trouble thinking and reasoning (cognitive problems) are also possibilities.
- weakness
- fatigue
An experienced physician can detect the signs of vitamin B12 insufficiency with a thorough interview and physical examination; nevertheless, a blood test is required to confirm the diagnosis.
What neurological issues can occur due to B12 deficiency?
Vitamin B deficiency increases the risk of heart disease, brain damage, and mental illness. For example, anemia (lack of healthy red blood cells) is caused by B9 and B12 deficiency (which makes it hard for different parts of your body to get the oxygen they need). Anemia can cause tiredness, dizziness, shortness of breath, numbness, and tingling. Below are the diseases associated with vitamin B deficiency:
Paresthesias — A “pins-and-needles” sensation commonly felt around the arms, hands, legs, or feet.
Peripheral neuropathy – The medical condition is a nerve system disorder characterized by stabbing or searing pain.
Psychosis – Psychosis is a mental illness in which one’s ideas and perceptions are dramatically disturbed, resulting in delusions, Alzheimer’s disease, hallucinations, gibberish speech, and other symptoms.
Heart attack and stroke – A vitamin B12 deficiency may increase the risk of heart attack or stroke.
If you are a strict vegetarian, have undergone weight-loss surgery, or have a medical condition that interferes with the absorption of food, it is good to contact your doctor at fortis la femme Bangalore about getting your B12 level evaluated. A doctor may provide some dietary advisory and medication to treat vitamin b deficiency. Treatment and detection should begin as soon as possible. If left untreated, the shortage can result in serious brain difficulties and blood disorders.
What factors cause Vitamin B Deficiency?
A non-balanced diet, excessive alcohol intake, certain drugs (such as proton-pump inhibitors, or PPIs), and gut malabsorption diseases are four leading causes of vitamin B insufficiency. Natural vitamin dietary sources, such as meat, dairy, fruits, and vegetables, are insufficient in your diet. Vegetarians who do not consume dairy products and vegans who do not consume animal products may fall into this group. Below factors can be the cause of vitamin B deficiency –
- Overcooking your meals can also lead to vitamin deficiencies.
- You’re expecting a child and aren’t taking a multivitamin. During pregnancy, folic acid supplements are extremely necessary.
- You have digestive issues or another medical condition that prevents vitamin absorption. Abnormal bacterial development in your stomach or any intestines or stomach surgery can all interfere with vitamin B-12 absorption.
- You are an alcoholic. Alcohol inhibits the absorption of folate, vitamin C, and other vitamins.
- You use prescription drugs that can interfere with vitamin absorption. Anti-seizure medications can inhibit folate absorption. Antacids and several medications used to treat type 2 diabetes may impair B-12 absorption.
In conclusion – Vitamin B12 is a water-soluble and necessary vitamin. It is responsible for various health advantages, including avoiding anemia, supporting the neurological system, and enhancing and sustaining bone health. You can receive enough vitamin B12 from your diet (animal food). On the other hand, supplements are an easy method to enhance your B12 consumption if you follow a plant-based diet or have a disease that inhibits absorption. Patients with b12 deficiency at an older age must visit a neurologist to lessen the risk of spinal nerve-related disorders. Doctors at fortis la femme Bangalore ensure personalized care for all their patients.
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