Are you facing Vitamin B 12 deficiency ? Check details
PTC News Desk: Vitamin B12 is a vital nutrient for our bodies. It helps create healthy red blood cells, is required for proper brain function and plays an important role in the metabolic process. Unfortunately, vitamin B12 deficiency is a common problem, especially among the elderly. If left untreated, it can lead to a variety of health problems.
So, what puts you at risk of vitamin B12 deficiency? The most common cause is a lack of sufficient dietary intake. People who follow a vegan or vegetarian diet are at particular risk because B12 is mostly found in animal products. Other risk factors include age, digestive issues, certain medications, and poor absorption.
Also Read: Traffic noise linked to high blood pressure, says study
The elderly are at increased risk of vitamin B12 deficiency, as the body’s ability to absorb the vitamin decreases with age. In addition, many seniors take medications that interfere with absorption, such as antacids or proton pump inhibitors.
Digestive issues, such as celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, and bacterial overgrowth, can also cause vitamin B12 deficiency. This is because these conditions can interfere with the absorption of the vitamin in the intestine.
Certain medications, such as metformin and omeprazole, can also affect vitamin B12 absorption. If you take any of these medications, you may need to take additional steps to ensure you’re getting enough B12.
Finally, poor absorption can also lead to vitamin B12 deficiency. Some people may have a genetic mutation that affects absorption, and others may have had bariatric surgery.
If you’re at risk of vitamin B12 deficiency, talk to your doctor. He or she may recommend that you take a vitamin B12 supplement or eat foods that are fortified with the vitamin. Eating a balanced diet that includes animal products, such as fish, eggs, and dairy products, can also help ensure you’re getting enough B12.
Vitamin B12 deficiency can have serious health consequences if left untreated, so it’s important to be aware of your risk and take steps to ensure you’re getting enough of this important nutrient.
Also Read: Study shows traumatic childhoods lead to adult anger
- With inputs from agencies
