2023-08-10 14:00:00
Written by Enas Al-Banna, Thursday, August 10, 2023 05:00 PM
Fatigue, weakness, anemia and neurological problems are associated with it With a deficiency of vitamin B12Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is a water-soluble vitamin that plays an important role in various bodily functions. Unlike many other nutrients, Vitamin B12 is not made in the human body. It is produced by certain bacteria, particularly in the guts. Animals and humans, and it enters the human body through the consumption of animal products or fortified foods. So what causes vitamin B12 deficiency?
What vitamin b12 does for the body
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DNA Synthesis: Vitamin B12 is essential for the synthesis of DNA, the genetic material found in every cell of the body.
Formation of red blood cells: Vitamin B12 is involved in the formation of red blood cells that transport oxygen throughout the body.
Neurological Function: Vitamin B12 is essential for maintaining healthy neurons and supporting proper neuronal function. Deficiency can lead to neurological symptoms such as tingling, numbness, and even cognitive changes. This is according to a study published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society.
Causes of vitamin B12 deficiency
According to OnlyMyHealth, when it comes to vitamin B12 deficiency, some factors can pose greater risks. Diet plays an important role in controlling vitamin B12 deficiency as the vitamin is mainly found in foods such as meat, eggs, and milk. Foods fortified with vitamin B12, including some nutritional yeast products and breakfast cereals. People who do not eat enough foods rich in this vitamin may need to take vitamin B12 supplements.
Surgical removal of some parts of the intestine or stomach can reduce the amount of intrinsic factor produced as well as reduce the space available for vitamin B12 absorption.
Intestinal diseases such as celiac disease and Crohn’s disease can affect the absorption of vitamin B12, and a tapeworm infection acquired from eating contaminated fish can lead to a vitamin B12 deficiency.
Pernicious anemia is another important condition responsible for vitamin B12 deficiency. In this, stomach cells responsible for producing a substance called intrinsic factor are attacked by the body’s immune system. Vitamin B12 cannot be produced.
The best foods to add to your diet
Eating a healthy diet that includes a variety of foods can help prevent some forms of vitamin B12 deficiency, these include:
Milk, cheese, yoghurt, meat, liver, chicken, fish, eggs, fortified foods, such as breakfast cereals
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