Vitamin B-12, also known as cobalamin, is a water-soluble B-complex vitamin. Vitamin B-12 is necessary for metabolism, DNA synthesis, production of red blood cells and maintenance of healthy nerve cells. Low vitamin B-12 levels are common in older patients due to decreased production of stomach acid, which causes decreased absorption of B-12 from foods. Patients who have had surgery to resection parts of the stomach and small intestine may also experience low B-12 levels.
Anemia
Low levels of vitamin B-12 may cause anemia, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. B-12 is needed by the body together with folic acid in order to assist the body in manufacturing healthy red blood cells. Low levels of B-12 inhibit cell division in the bone marrow resulting in large immature red blood cells known as megaloblasts. These cells do not have the capacity to store hemoglobin which results in megaloblastic anemia.
Damage of Nerve Cells
Vitamin B-12 is important for the maintenance of a healthy central nervous system. Patients with low levels of B-12 may experience symptoms such as difficulties walking and maintaining balance, memory loss, numbness and tingling of extremities, mood changes, confusion, depression and dementia. Patients experiencing these neurological symptoms should be treated with B-12 shots in order to prevent permanent nerve damage.
Low Energy Levels
Vitamin B-12 is important for the conversion of food into energy that can be utilized by the body. Vitamin B-12 works together with other B vitamins to ensure that glucose is extracted from consumed foods, according to the Oregon State University. Lack of enough intake of B-12 and other B vitamins may lead to low energy levels. Patients having problems absorbing vitamin B-12 due to stomach disorders should receive regular B-12 injections in order to prevent low B-12 levels.
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