B12 and folate, or folic acid, are both B-complex vitamins necessary for red blood cell formation, DNA synthesis, and tissue and cellular repair. The body stores up to five years worth of B12 and several months worth of folate, so symptoms often indicate a chronic deficiency. A B12 or folate deficiency can lead to anemia, a condition where the body lacks enough red blood cells to properly circulate oxygen to the tissues and organs.
Causes
B12 and folate deficiencies are rare, most often occurring because of chronic malnutrition. In some cases, the body lacks the ability to absorb adequate nutrition from foods because of intestinal damage. B12 deficiencies can occur due to a lack of stomach acid, which is necessary to separate B12 from consumed proteins. B12 deficiencies may also occur due to inadequate amounts of intrinsic factor, the substance produced by parietal cells in the stomach that binds with B12 before absorption by the intestines. Lab Tests Online explains that inadequate intrinsic factor can sometimes occur because of an autoimmune type of anemia that causes damage to the parietal cells
Risk Factors
Several conditions can increase the likelihood of a person developing a B vitamin deficiency. People who abuse alcohol are at an increased risk, as well as pregnant women. The University of Maryland Medical Center, or UMMC, explains that people who have intestinal diseases such as Crohn's or celiac disease lack the ability to absorb nutrients from foods, which increases the chance of a B vitamin deficiency.
Symptoms
Symptoms of B12 and folate deficiencies also closely mimic other diseases or disorders. Early deficiencies may not manifest symptoms at all. People suffering from a B12 deficiency may experience confusion, diarrhea, dizziness, fatigue, weakness, loss of appetite and paranoia. The National Institutes of Health explains that folate deficiency symptoms can include pale skin, a sore mouth and tongue, and a headache.
Treatments
Treatment often depends on the underlying reason for the deficiency. People who suffer from chronic malnutrition may initially need B12 injections or folate given orally or intravenously and then an increase in foods rich with both B vitamins, according to UMMC. When the cause involves intestinal illness or disease, people may need to receive lifelong intravenous or injectable medications.
Prevention
Preventing a folate and B12 deficiency involves eating a balanced and healthy diet. Lab Tests Online explains that foods rich in folic acid include green, leafy vegetables, citrus fruits, yeast, dry beans and fortified cereals. Vitamin B12 can be found in red meat, fish, poultry, milk, fortified cereal and eggs.
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