The doctor explains how low levels of this nutrient can damage the proper functioning of the body
Vitamin B12 deficiency, contrary to what many may think, is not a problem that only affects vegans and vegetarians, but also people who consume meat and dairy products. According to data from Tufts University Framingham Offspring Study40% of people aged 26 to 83 have plasma vitamin B12 levels in the low-normal range, a level at which many people already experience neurological symptoms.
According to Rodrigo Neves, a doctor with a degree in endocrinology, vitamin B12 plays a crucial role in the production of red blood cells, brain function and the nervous system. “The amount needed to maintain good levels in the blood may vary from one individual to another, depending on the absorption capacity of each organism (from 5 mcg to 20 mcg per day). But obviously this maintenance amount is much lower than the dose the deficiency needs to be corrected. A deficiency of this vitamin can lead to serious health problems and the symptoms can appear gradually”, explains the professional.
Causes of disability
B12 is a vitamin produced by bacteria that live in organic soil and intestine of animals. Since plants do not need this vitamin to grow, they do not absorb it. Rodrigo explains that the deficiency occurs in vegetarians and non-vegetarians, contrary to what is usually thought.
“The problem is not only the restriction of foods of animal origin such as meat, eggs and milk. It can often be caused by the use of chemical fertilizers in the soil which kill bacteria, by the alteration of our intestinal flora, by the indiscriminate use of antibiotics,” he explains.
“Raising animals for slaughter in closed spaces also prevents the animals from eating directly from the ground, reducing the amount of B12 in the blood and tissues. Therefore, today animals consume supplements to balance this deficiency,” adds the expert.
The practitioner points out that many of the plant foods thought to contain B12, such as algae, mushrooms and yeast, actually have a similar form. However, this form does not work significantly in humans.
Symptoms of vitamin B deficiency12
Among the most common symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency are:
- Constant fatigue (feeling tired and without energy, even after adequate periods of rest);
- Muscle weakness (experience continuous muscle weakness, difficulty carrying out daily activities);
- Dizziness (unexplained dizziness and tingling sensation in the hands and feet);
- Memory failures (difficulty remembering information, reduced concentration and memory lapses);
- Small cracks at the corners of the mouth;
- Changes in the functioning of the intestines and even tingling in the extremities;
- Mood changes, including irritability, anxiety, or even depressive symptoms.
In these cases it is important to contact your doctor to carry out specific tests that will confirm or exclude the deficiency.
Supplement to replace the vitamin
When your vitamin B12 level is below 350 pg/ml, you experience signs of deficiency. Ideally, this level should be above 490 pg/mL. Check these rates every six months, especially if you are a vegetarian or regularly use medications.
“Many regular meat eaters need to supplement. But if you are vegetarian or vegan, it is essential to supplement. The most common supplementation options are capsules, sublingual or injection,” concludes Rodrigo Neves.
Vitamin B12 supplementation is an effective way to correct this deficiency. However, it is crucial to highlight that self-medication is not appropriate. Each person has individual needs and too much vitamin B12 can cause unwanted side effects. The best approach is to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and a prescription of appropriate supplements, if necessary.
By Tayanne Silva
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
