B12 vitamin deficiency, if left untreated, can cause serious and irreversible damage, especially to the brain and nervous system. It can also increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Both vitamin B12 deficiency and folate deficiency are more common in older people, affecting one in 10 people aged 75 and older and one in 20 people aged 65 to 74, says the National Health Service.
The Mayo Clinic has published information on vitamin B-12 and dementia.
He notes that vitamin B-12 helps keep nerve cells and red blood cells healthy, and deficiency can cause a number of signs and symptoms, “including memory loss.”
He says that in cases of vitamin B12 deficiency, supplements can help improve memory.
“Other than treating vitamin B-12 deficiency, there is no clear evidence that vitamin B-12 supplements improve the memory of people with Alzheimer’s disease.
However, the Mayo Clinic says that some studies suggest that low levels of vitamin B12 may be associated with an increased risk of dementia, “but supplementation with B vitamins has not been shown to improve brain function or symptoms of loss of consciousness.” memory”.
It says, “If you’re concerned you’re not getting enough vitamin B-12 or other specific nutrients, see your doctor, especially if you’re an older adult or a vegetarian.”
You should seek the advice of a GP if you experience symptoms of vitamin B12 or folate deficiency anemia.
The longer the condition goes untreated, the greater the chance of permanent damage.
The recommended daily amount of vitamin B12 for adults is 2.4 micrograms, according to the Mayo Clinic.
People who follow a vegetarian or vegan diet may be prone to deficiency because plant foods don’t contain vitamin B12, he adds.
General symptoms of anemia can include extreme tiredness, feeling faint, pale skin and tinnitus, according to the NHS. Loss of appetite and weight loss can also indicate the problem.
If you have anemia caused by a vitamin B12 deficiency, you may have other symptoms, such as irritability and depression, according to the NHS.
The health agency adds that you can also notice “changes in the way you think, feel and behave.”
Some people also report a decline in their mental abilities, such as memory, comprehension and judgment, says the health body.
“Some of these symptoms can also occur in people who have a vitamin B12 deficiency but have not developed anemia,” he adds.
Vitamin B12 deficiency anemia is usually treated with vitamin B12 injections. According to the NHS, if your vitamin B12 deficiency is caused by a lack of the vitamin in your diet, you may be prescribed vitamin B12 tablets to take between meals every day.
Anemia due to vitamin B12 deficiency is more common in people whose families come from Northern Europe, according to the Johns Hopkins Medicine site.
It adds that risk factors for vitamin B12 deficiency anemia include partial or complete removal of the stomach or intestine and autoimmune diseases, including type 1 diabetes. Crohn’s disease, HIV and some medications can also cause deficiency. .
Good sources of vitamin B12 include meat, fish, milk, cheese, and eggs. If you eat meat, fish or dairy products, you should be able to get enough vitamin B12 from your diet, according to the NHS.
You can also look for vegan and vegetarian foods that are fortified with vitamin B12, such as some plant-based milks and breakfast cereals.
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