5 Scary Side Effects of a B-12 Deficiency
B vitamins support normal functions performed by the brain and nervous system, support adrenal function. Vitamin B-12 is also required for critical metabolic processes like DNA synthesis, production of neurotransmitters, energy production and is required for the development of red blood cells.
Vitamin B-12 is found in animal-derived foods such as dairy, eggs, meat, poultry and fish. Diets that limit these foods and/or poor absorption may lead to a Vitamin B-12 deficiency. Prolonged Vitamin B-12 deficiency can lead to serious mental[2] and physical symptoms[1], such as:
- Fatigue and muscle weakness
- Irregular heartbeats
- Personality and mood changes
- Memory Loss
- Dementia
Although deficiency can present differently for everyone, there are four basic stages:
Stage 1:
This is the earliest stage, so there are no noticeable signs or symptoms of deficiency. However, low levels can be detected through a blood test.
Stage 2:
Low blood levels of B-12 are detectable, and cellular dysfunction begins to set in. Some symptoms may start to be present.
Stage 3:
Neurological, psychological and gastrointestinal symptoms, such as indigestion and discomfort, may be present in this phase. Also, without sufficient levels of Vitamin B-12, methylmalonic acid (MMA) and homocysteine (HCY) build up in the body. An elevated level of HCY in blood is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease[3] and should be monitored by a physician.
Stage 4:
The final and most severe stage of B-12 deficiency can lead to lasting damage[2] to the nervous system.
Getting Enough Vitamin B-12
You can prevent these devastating side effects by including B-rich foods in your diet, supplementing when necessary with high-quality Vitamin B-12 and having your Vitamin B-12 levels checked as part of your annual physical exam.
References:
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/vitamin-deficiency-anemia/symptoms-causes/syc-20355025
- https://lpi.oregonstate.edu/mic/vitamins/vitamin-B12
- https://www.aafp.org/afp/2003/0301/p979.html
Original article written by and posted on Trivita.com
Posted by Jeffrey Sloe on Markethive
Jeffrey Sloe