B12 deficiency can be a serious health problem and many factors contribute to a deficiency: vegetarian diets, antacids, diabetes medications, iron deficiency, aging and digestive disorders.
This vital nutrient is needed to prevent anemia. It aids folic acid in regulating the formation of red blood cells and helps in the utilization of iron. B12 is required for proper digestion, absorption of foods, the synthesis of protein and the metabolism of carbohydrates and fats. B12 aids in cell formation and cellular longevity. B12 prevents nerve damage and maintains the fatty sheaths that cover and protect nerve endings.
B12 is linked to neurotransmitters that assist memory, learning, mood and sleep patterns allowing a more restful and refreshing sleep.
The most common symptoms of B12 deficiency include fatigue, dizziness, drowsiness, headaches, memory loss, poor concentration, depression, bone loss, neurological damage, nerve damage including tingling in hands and feet and tinnitis. Symptoms of B12 deficiency usually occur long before the deficiency is severe enough to cause dementia or anemia.
Up to 30% of people over the age of 50 may not get enough B12 and it is estimated that more than 50% of all long term vegetarians and vegans are deficient. Even if you’re a meat or mollusk eater you may be deficient because it takes stomach acid to release the B12 from protein and as you get older you produce less of this acid.
One of my daughters is a vegetarian and frequently vegan so this essential nutrient is one supplement I’m particularly passionate and vigilant about. We supplement daily but also have blood tests twice per year.
B12 is not well absorbed orally. Injections or tablets taken sublingually (dissolved under the tongue) are the way to go. We take one Jarrow Formula Methyl B12 1000 mcg for maintenance. Take more to correct a deficiency. Blood levels normalize within 2 weeks but whole body stores take 6 months.
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