Top Reasons of B12 Deficiency you may Never Heard

Do you ever experience weakness, fatigue or numbness in your body? If so, you might want to consider B12 deficiency as one of the possible causes. B12 is an important nutrient that helps with the production of red blood cells and the maintenance of nerve tissue and cells.

Due to its importance for human health, a deficiency of this nutrient can cause numerous symptoms and, if left untreated can lead to serious consequences. In this article, we explore the top reasons of B12 deficiency. From dietary habits, to medical conditions and digestive problems, we cover all the aspects related to this condition as well as steps you can take to prevent or treat a deficiency.

What Is B12 Deficiency?

B12 deficiency, also known as cobalamin, is a condition in which the body does not store enough of the vitamin, leading to inadequate amounts of the vitamin in the blood. It is estimated that approximately five percent of Americans suffer from a B12 deficiency, making it one of the most common nutritional deficiencies in the US.

B12 is a water-soluble vitamin that is necessary for the production of healthy red blood cells and is also responsible for the proper functioning of the nervous system. Without enough B12 the body cannot produce enough healthy red blood cells, leading to a variety of symptoms, including fatigue, nerve damage and even anemia.

The most common Reasons of B12 Deficiency include inadequate diet, malabsorption of the vitamin and certain medications. Vegetarians and vegans are most likely to be deficient in B12 because animal sources are the primary dietary sources of the vitamin. Age-related malabsorption and certain medications such as Metformin, are also common causes of B12 deficiency.

Inadequate dietary intake is the most common cause of B12 deficiency and is usually seen in people who follow strict vegan diets. As B12 is found almost exclusively in meat and dairy products, vegans are the most likely to be deficient in this vitamin. To mitigate this risk, vegans and vegetarians should consider taking a daily B12 supplement.

In some cases, B12 deficiencies can be treated with supplementation. For example, in the case of dietary deficiencies, daily B12 supplement can be taken to increase levels of the vitamin. For more severe B12 deficiencies, injections may be necessary to restore adequate B12 levels in the body. Let’s discuss more about it in details.

Causes of B12 Deficiency

B12 deficiency is a condition characterized by a lack of the essential vitamin, also known as cobalamin. There are a variety of reasons why this deficiency can occur some of which you may never have heard of before. Here are the top reasons of B12 deficiency you may never heard:

Vegan and Vegetarian Diet

Vegan and vegetarian diets are increasingly popular and while they can provide a nutritious and healthful eating plan they can place an individual at risk of developing an essential nutrient deficiency. Vitamin B12 or cobalamin, is one of the 13 essential vitamins that our body needs. A lack of B12 can lead to potentially serious health issues.

Vegan and vegetarians are particularly at risk of vitamin B12 deficiency as animal products are some of the most reliable dietary sources of this nutrient. While it is possible to get vitamin B12 from plant sources these are not as reliable and may not contain adequate amounts for one’s needs. Those following a vegan or vegetarian lifestyle are therefore, at a higher risk of vitamin B12 deficiency.

To prevent vitamin B12 deficiency in vegans and vegetarians they must carefully plan their meals with an eye to consuming adequate amounts of this nutrient. Foods that are fortified with vitamin B12 are the most reliable way to ensure an adequate intake, with fortified breakfast cereals, plant-based milk and certain yeast extracts being the most common.

Vitamin B12 supplements are also available and should be taken daily. In addition, vegans and vegetarians may require more vitamin B12 than their omnivorous counterparts due to their inability to absorb this vitamin from many plant-based sources. This is due to the presence of a compound called “phytate” which binds to vitamin B12 in the gut and prevents its absorption.

Therefore, vegans and vegetarians are at an increased risk of vitamin B12 deficiency due to their reliance on plant-based foods for their nutritional needs. Careful dietary planning and the use of fortified foods and supplements are the best way to prevent this deficiency and maintain good health.

Inadequate Intake of B12 Foods

One of the common reasons for B12 deficiency is inadequate intake of B12-rich foods. B12 is a water-soluble vitamin that is primarily found in animal-based products such as meat, fish, eggs and dairy products. Additionally, B12 absorption from food can decrease with age due to decreased stomach acid production. As such, individuals over the age of 50 may be more at risk for inadequate B12 intake and deficiency.

This is because as we age, our ability to absorb B12 from food is reduced and we are less able to utilize dietary sources of B12. This means that even if you are consuming adequate amounts of B12-rich foods the amount of B12 that is readily available to your body may be lower than expected.

Furthermore some medications can interfere with B12 absorption, thus leading to inadequate B12 intake. Certain medications such as antacids, proton pump inhibitors, histamine-2 receptor antagonists and metformin, have been linked to impaired B12 absorption. Therefore, it is important to check with your doctor to see if any of the medications you are taking may be reducing your body’s ability to absorb B12 from food.

Overall, inadequate B12 intake from food is one of the main reasons for B12 deficiency. Therefore, it is important to ensure that you are consuming adequate amounts of B12-rich foods, especially if you are vegan or vegetarian or if you are taking medications that may interfere with B12 absorption. Additionally, if you’re over the age of 50, consider supplementing vitamin B12 since your body may not be able to adequately absorb sufficient amounts from food alone.

Inability to Absorb B12

The inability to absorb B12 is one of the top reasons of B12 deficiency that you may never have heard of. This can be due to a number of causes, from inadequate stomach acid to an autoimmune condition called pernicious anemia. Firstly, B12 absorption is an acid-dependent process. Inadequate hydrochloric acid in the stomach can limit its ability to release free B12 from the food source to be absorbed in the small intestine.

Poor production of stomach acid can happen with aging, pernicious anemia and chronic H. pylori infection, among other things. Another common cause of inadequate B12 absorption is a condition known as pernicious anemia which is an autoimmune condition. In this case the body's own immune system attacks the cells in the stomach that make intrinsic factor, a compound necessary for B12 absorption.

Pernicious anemia is the leading cause of B12 deficiency in the United States. Those with a history of weight-loss surgery may also experience difficulty absorbing B12 because the procedure often involves removing the section of the intestines responsible for B12 absorption. This means that even with adequate B12 intake, people who have had this type of surgery may still have difficulty absorbing it.

Finally, gastrointestinal diseases such as Crohn's disease and celiac disease can impact B12 absorption due to inflammation in the small intestine. This can lead to malabsorption of the vitamin, resulting in deficiency. All of these conditions can lead to a deficiency of B12 which can cause a host of symptoms including weakness, fatigue, nerve damage, memory loss and more. If you have any of the conditions detailed above, it is important to get tested for B12 deficiency and speak to your doctor about the best way to address it.

Gastric Surgery

Gastric surgery is a common cause of vitamin B12 deficiency. Procedures like gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy can limit the amount of vitamin B12 absorbed by the body. Other types of gastric surgery, such as partial gastrectomy and gastric banding, may also interfere with B12 absorption. People with vitamin B12 deficiency who have had weight loss surgery should have regular follow-up laboratory tests to check their vitamin B12 level. If their level is low, doctors may prescribe vitamin B12 supplements.

It is also crucial to eat enough B12-rich foods, like meats, poultry, fish, eggs, and dairy products, or foods fortified with vitamin B12 to maintain adequate levels. Patients who undergo gastric surgery should be aware of the potential for developing dietary deficiencies, particularly iron and folate deficiencies. These nutrients are essential for the body to absorb and use vitamin B12 properly. If a deficiency is suspected, additional tests may be ordered, and doctors can provide advice on improving nutrition.

Certain Medical Conditions and B12 Deficiency

Some medical conditions can lead to a lack of vitamin B12. These include Crohn's disease, celiac disease, bacterial overgrowth, and pernicious anemia, all of which interfere with the absorption of B12. Crohn's disease, an inflammation of the digestive tract, impairs the absorption of vitamins and minerals. Symptoms include severe abdominal pain, diarrhea, and fatigue.

People with Crohn's disease may experience a vitamin B12 deficiency due to poor absorption in the small intestine. Celiac disease, an autoimmune disorder, causes gluten intolerance and symptoms like anemia, fatigue, bloating, and abdominal pain. Those affected should ensure they absorb vitamin B12 properly to prevent deficiency. Eating foods fortified with vitamin B12 can help maintain healthy red blood cells.

Bacterial overgrowth occurs when there is an excess of bacteria in the body. Symptoms include gas, bloating, and abdominal pain. The bacteria can interfere with vitamin B12 absorption, leading to deficiency. Pernicious anemia is an autoimmune disorder that destroys parietal cells in the stomach responsible for producing intrinsic factor, which is crucial for B12 absorption.

A lack of vitamin B12 due to pernicious anemia can lead to megaloblastic anemia. Symptoms include weakness, fatigue, and anemia. For those with these medical conditions, it is important to monitor vitamin B12 levels and seek medical advice if experiencing symptoms. Drinking excessive amounts of alcohol may also contribute to deficiency. Maintaining adequate amounts of vitamin B12 in the body and eating a balanced diet can help prevent complications.

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Chronic Alcoholism

Chronic alcoholism is one of the leading causes of B12 deficiency you may never heard about. Chronic alcoholics often have a poor diet and don't get enough nutrients from their food. Additionally, alcohol interferes with the absorption of B12, meaning that even if a chronic alcoholic consumes adequate amounts of this vitamin their body is unable to properly store it.

Additionally, alcoholics may suffer from a condition known as malabsorption in which their body is unable to absorb any nutrients, including B12, from food. As a result, chronic alcoholism is a major contributor to B12 deficiency.

It's important to understand the risks associated with chronic alcoholism and how it can lead to B12 deficiency. If you or someone you know may be suffering from chronic alcoholism, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible in order to maintain proper B12 levels and alleviate the associated symptoms.

Symptoms of B12 Deficiency

When it comes to B12 deficiency there are several different types of symptoms that can be experienced. Understanding these symptoms can help you to identify if you are suffering from a B12 deficiency or not. One of the most common symptoms of B12 deficiency is fatigue which is usually accompanied by a feeling of weakness or exhaustion.

Other symptoms may include difficulty concentrating and difficulty staying awake during the day. Additionally, if you are suffering from a B12 deficiency, you may have difficulty sleeping, increased irritability, depression and even memory loss.

Other physical symptoms of B12 deficiency include pale skin or skin discoloration, numbness or tingling in the fingers and toes soreness or tenderness in the mouth, trembling and shortness of breath. If these physical symptoms are experienced then it is important to get checked for a B12 deficiency. In some cases, a person suffering from a B12 deficiency may be at risk for more serious medical issues such as anemia.

Anemia is a condition in which the body doesn't produce enough healthy red blood cells. This can cause a person to feel very tired, experience paleness and lightheadedness. It is important to note that B12 deficiency can also lead to nerve damage which can cause a number of different symptoms including problems with balance, dizziness and an overall feeling of weakness.

Overall, it is important to be aware of the different symptoms of B12 deficiency in order to be able to recognize them and get checked for a possible deficiency. It is important to note that all of these symptoms can be caused by a variety of different medical conditions and it is important to consult a doctor for a proper diagnosis.  

Diagnosis of B12 Deficiency

The most accurate way to diagnose B12 deficiency is through a blood test known as a serum vitamin B12 test. The test measures the amount of B12 in your blood. A deficiency is diagnosed if the levels of B12 in your blood are below 150 picomoles per liter (pmol/L). To confirm the diagnosis, your doctor might also order a homocysteine or methylmalonic acid test.

Both of these tests measure the level of specific molecules in your blood that can be elevated if you have a B12 deficiency. Additionally, a doctor may conduct an assessment of your signs and symptoms, since B12 deficiency can cause a wide range of physical and neurological symptoms.

Your diet can also be taken into consideration to determine if B12 deficiency is likely since the nutrient is only found in animal products. Other causes of B12 deficiency should also be ruled out before a diagnosis is made.

There are several gastrointestinal disorders, including celiac disease, Crohn’s disease and gastritis that can lead to malabsorption of B12 so a doctor may also want to conduct tests to rule these out.

Certain medications and certain types of surgery such as gastric bypass surgery and removal of the small intestine can also lead to B12 deficiency so your doctor will want to take a look at your medical history as well. By obtaining a diagnosis of B12 deficiency, you can explore treatment options to prevent any further damage to your body and get back on track to optimal health.

Treatment of B12 Deficiency

B12 deficiency can be treated with B12 supplementation in the form of either oral tablets, intramuscular injection or skin patch. The type of treatment chosen should depend on the severity of the deficiency and the individual’s response to oral supplementation. For example, if oral supplementation is not sufficient, an intramuscular injection may be recommended by a doctor.

Depending on the severity of the deficiency, a doctor may recommend B12 supplements in one or a combination of several forms, including tablets, shots or skin patches. If a person is deficient in B12 due to their diet or lifestyle then diet and lifestyle changes can be beneficial. Eating foods that are high in B12 such as animal products, shellfish and fortified foods or taking a B12 supplement can help to address deficiencies.

Additionally, getting regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight and limiting alcohol consumption can all help to support adequate B12 levels. In some cases, if the B12 deficiency is due to a medical condition such as pernicious anemia, additional medical treatment may be needed.

This may include medication to treat the underlying cause such as immunosuppressants or antibiotics. Additionally, people who have had gastrointestinal surgery may require regular vitamin B12 injections as the body cannot absorb B12 from food effectively afterward.

Oral B12 Supplements

Oral B12 supplements may help to reduce the risk of developing a B12 deficiency in a number of ways. The most common supplement is cyanocobalamin and it contains the active form of B12. Taking this supplement regularly can allow your body to absorb more of the vitamin than it otherwise would, increasing the amount available for use in your body.

B12 is found naturally in many foods but some people may not be able to absorb the amount it is present in food. In this case, an oral supplement can provide the body with the important vitamin B12 in the necessary amounts. Additionally some people may have an absorption problem due to their diet or lifestyle which can lead to a B12 deficiency.

An oral supplement can provide an excellent source of B12 which can help to reduce the risk of developing a deficiency. Those who are vegan or vegetarian may be more susceptible to B12 deficiency due to their limited access to natural sources of B12. Fortunately oral supplements are available which can provide the body with the necessary amount of B12, helping to reduce the risk of a deficiency.

Oral supplements may also be beneficial for those who are pregnant as the need for B12 increases in order to support the growth and development of the baby. Taking an oral supplement can help to ensure that the body is getting the necessary amount of B12 and reduce the chances of developing a deficiency. Finally some individuals may have difficulty absorbing B12, even if they are taking an oral supplement. In this case, it may be beneficial to have B12 injections as they can provide a direct source of B12, bypassing the need to absorb the vitamin orally.

Injections

For some people, especially those having severe deficiency of B12, injections of vitamin B12 are the most effective way of treating deficiencies. This is particularly true for individuals who suffer from pernicious anemia as the condition impairs their ability to absorb vitamins through their diet.

Injections may also be recommended for those with digestive issues such as Crohn's disease or for those undergoing certain medical treatments such as chemotherapy. Additionally some people may not respond to other forms of treatment and so may be prescribed an injection instead. Although injections are an effective way of restoring vitamin B12 levels, it is important to be aware of the risks associated with them.

Common side effects of injections may include localized pain, swelling and redness at the site of the injection. Additionally there is a small risk of an allergic reaction to the vitamin. Those at risk of developing an injection site reaction should always seek advice from a medical professional before proceeding.

Overall, injections may be suitable for a number of individuals suffering from vitamin B12 deficiency as they help to restore healthy levels of the vitamin quickly and effectively. They may also be necessary in cases where other forms of treatment are not suitable or have proven unsuccessful.

It is important, however, to be aware of the potential risks associated with injections and to consult a doctor before proceeding with the treatment. While injections are an effective way of restoring vitamin B12 levels, other forms of supplementation may be suitable for many cases of deficiency. 

Conclusion

In conclusion, B12 deficiency can have serious consequences and should not be taken lightly. It is important to get an accurate diagnosis as dietary changes and supplements can make all the difference in the health of an individual. Fortunately there are many options when it comes to diagnosing and treating B12 deficiency.

Eating foods naturally high in B12, supplementing with B12 on a daily basis and addressing any underlying medical conditions are all important ways to prevent B12 deficiency. If you suspect that you may be suffering from a B12 deficiency, it is best to consult your doctor or healthcare provider so they can help you get an accurate diagnosis and start you on the path towards optimal health.  

About The Author

Meet Dr. Ahmet Ergin a highly skilled and dedicated endocrinologist with a passion for diabetes care. Dr. Ergin earned his medical degree with honors from Marmara University in Istanbul. He completed internal medicine residency and endocrinology fellowship at Cleveland Clinic.

Dr. Ergin is board-certified in Internal Medicine, Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism due to his vast medical expertise. He's a certified diabetes educator, author of "The Ultimate Diabetes Book," and founder of "the SugarMD YouTube channel."  Dr. Ergin offers exceptional diabetes care to his patients in Port Saint Lucie, FL, helping them manage effectively.

Disclaimer: The website's disease and treatment info is general guidance and not a substitute for professional healthcare advice. Seek professional advice for personalized diagnosis and treatment plans to ensure accurate and effective care. Consult a qualified healthcare professional for any questions about your health and wellness.