Vitamin B12, also called cobalamin, is the largest and most chemically complex of the B-class vitamins. It plays a role in activating enzymes within your body -- the proteins that help carry out metabolic functions within your cells. Low levels of vitamin B12 in your body indicate a vitamin deficiency, which can lead to a number of side effects, including neurological damage. This deficiency might develop for several reasons, including lifestyle factors or underlying physiological disorders.
Inadequate Intake
One possible cause of a vitamin B12 deficiency is a poor or restricted diet, lacking the nutrient-dense foods that would normally provide vitamin B12. Eating a diet rich in junk foods, fast foods or a narrow range of foods might lead to nutritional deficiencies, including vitamin B12. To help ensure adequate cobalamin consumption, ensure foods such as clams, mussels, salmon, beef, poultry, eggs and milk make up a part of your diet. If you choose to abstain from eating animal products, consult with a physician about the possibility of vitamin supplements to prevent a vitamin B12 deficiency.
Atrophic Gastritis
Another possible cause of vitamin B12 deficiency is atrophic gastritis. This condition develops due to inflammation in the lining of the stomach, which might stem from an auto-immune disorder. Over time, the inflammation causes damage to the acid-secreting glands within the stomach lining, diminishing stomach acid production. Without adequate stomach acid, your body cannot effectively break down the foods you eat, and might not properly absorb nutrients from your diet, including vitamin B12.
Celiac Disease
Celiac disease might also lead to vitamin B12 deficiency if not managed properly. Individuals with celiac disease develop inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract after eating gluten -- a protein found in wheat, rye, oats and barley. Over time, exposure to gluten can damage the small intestine, interfering with your body's ability to properly absorb nutrients, including vitamin B12. To help prevent a vitamin B12 deficiency as a result of celiac disease, the Ohio State University Medical Center recommends following a gluten-free diet to prevent further intestinal damage and allow for proper healing.
Gastrointestinal Surgeries
In some cases, prior medical treatments might interfere with your body's ability to completely absorb nutrients, leading to disorders such as vitamin B12 deficiency. A gastric bypass surgery -- a surgical treatment to facilitate weight loss -- involves decreasing the size of your stomach, as well as allowing food to bypass part of the small intestine, where the majority of nutrient absorption occurs. To help avoid vitamin B12 and other nutrient deficiencies after surgery, consult with your doctor about the potential benefits of vitamin supplements to meet your body's needs.
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