Vitamin B12, also referred to as cobalamin, is a water-soluble vitamin that plays a role in many important bodily functions. Given its importance, vitamin B12 deficiency can be particularly worrying, potentially leading to a number of health complications. Vitamin B12 deficiency is common in the elderly, as well as individuals that do not receive enough vitamin B12 in the diet, such as vegans.
Megaloblastic Anemia
Vitamin B12 plays a major role in DNA synthesis. Vitamin B12 deficiency can result in an inhibition of DNA synthesis in blood cell production, leading to megaloblastic anemia. Cells with impaired DNA synthesis do progress from the G2 growth phase of the cell cycle to mitosis. This causes continual growth without division, leading to larger than normal cells and a decrease in cell numbers. This leads to the production of abnormal red blood cells that do not function correctly.
Gastrointestinal Problems
Vitamin B12 deficiency is often linked to an inability to produce intrinsic factor in the stomach, states the Office of Dietary Supplements. Intrinsic factor is required for the body to absorb vitamin B12 from the diet and the symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency are linked to an absence of this factor. Moreover, vitamin B12 deficiency also disrupts the division of gastrointestinal cells by the inhibition of DNA synthesis. Patients suffering from vitamin B12 deficiency may present with diarrhea or constipation.
Neurological Complications
Vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to neuropsychiatric manifestations, such as memory loss, depression, hypomania, paranoid psychosis and auditory and visual hallucinations. Patients may also present with violent behavior or more subtle personality changes. The exact mechanism that leads to these complications is not known. Vitamin B12 deficiency can also lead to degradation of the spinal cord, according to the "International Journal of Nutrition and Wellness."
Weakness and Fatigue
Vitamin B12 plays a major role in nervous system function. Vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to the destruction of the spinal cord and the peripheral nervous system. This can lead to tingling and numbness in the extremities, as well as contributing to feelings of muscle weakness and fatigue. Vitamin B12 supplementation can help to alleviate these symptoms.
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