Identifying and treating vitamin B12 deficiency
Vitamin B12 is an essential vitamin that plays an important role in the body. A deficiency of this vitamin can lead to a variety of health problems. We explain the causes, symptoms and treatment options.
What is a vitamin B12 deficiency and what effects does it have on the body?
Vitamin B12 deficiency occurs when the body is unable to absorb or utilise sufficient vitamin B12. This vitamin is essential for the production of red blood cells, the functioning of the nervous system and DNA synthesis. A deficiency can lead to anaemia, neurological disorders and other health problems.
What causes a vitamin B12 deficiency and who is particularly at risk?
Vitamin B12 deficiency can occur in several ways. The most common cause is an inadequate intake of the vitamin from food. People who eat a vegan or vegetarian diet are at increased risk because vitamin B12 is mainly found in animal products. In addition, certain conditions such as pernicious anaemia and gastrointestinal disorders may impair the absorption of vitamin B12.
How is a vitamin B12 deficiency diagnosed?
Vitamin B12 deficiency is usually diagnosed by a blood test. Serum levels of vitamin B12 are measured. It is important for the doctor to rule out other underlying diseases that may cause similar symptoms.
A vitamin B12 deficiency can cause a variety of symptoms. Here is a list of possible signs:
- tiredness and general weakness
- pallor or yellowing of the skin
- shortness of breath or breathing difficulties
- dizziness or problems with balance
- palpitations or irregular heartbeat
- problems concentrating and memory problems
- numbness or tingling in the extremities (hands and feet)
- muscle weakness or twitching
- changes in gait or coordination problems
- mood swings, depression or anxiety
- sleep disorders or disturbed sleep-wake rhythm
- tongue pain or tenderness
- digestive issues such as diarrhoea, constipation or loss of appetite
- weight loss despite adequate food intake
Please note that these symptoms may also be indicative of other diseases. In the event of persistent or severe symptoms, you should therefore always consult a doctor in order to obtain an accurate diagnosis and treatment.
A vegan or vegetarian diet may be associated with an increased risk of vitamin B12 deficiency. Vitamin B12 is mainly found in animal products such as meat, fish, eggs and dairy products. As vegan or vegetarian diets restrict the consumption of such foods, it is more difficult to absorb adequate amounts of vitamin B12 from food alone.
Plant-based foods usually contain only small amounts of natural vitamin B12 (when vitamin B12-producing microorganisms are present). To prevent deficiency, vegans and vegetarians should consider alternative sources such as fortified foods or supplements to meet their vitamin B12 requirements.
Natural sources of vitamin B12 are animal products such as meat, fish, eggs and dairy products. To prevent a deficiency, you should consume these foods regularly. Those who follow a vegan diet should consider alternative sources such as fortified foods or dietary supplements to meet their vitamin B12 requirements. The recommended daily intake varies with age and sex, but is generally around 2.4 micrograms.
There are some medications and diseases that affect the absorption or metabolism of vitamin B12. These include gastrointestinal diseases, such as Crohn’s disease or coeliac disease, as well as medication to reduce gastric acid production. In such cases, targeted treatment may be necessary to correct the vitamin B12 deficiency.
Treatment of vitamin B12 deficiency usually involves taking vitamin B12 preparations orally or intravenously. The duration of treatment depends on the severity of the deficiency. In many cases, symptoms may improve within a few weeks to months after starting treatment.
Untreated vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to serious complications. These include irreversible damage to the nervous system, which can lead to neurological disorders and permanent dysfunction. It is therefore important to detect vitamin B12 deficiency at an early stage and to treat it accordingly in order to avoid long-term consequences.
Vitamin B12 deficiency: conclusion
A vitamin B12 deficiency can have a significant impact on health. A balanced diet with an adequate intake of vitamin B12 is essential, especially for those at increased risk of deficiency. If vitamin B12 deficiency is suspected, symptoms should be taken seriously and a medical examination carried out to ensure appropriate diagnosis and treatment.
