Vitamin B12 is a water-soluble vitamin that is necessary for metabolism, red blood cell production, DNA synthesis and maintenance of a healthy nervous system. B12 is naturally only found in animal foods such as beef liver, red meat, fish, poultry, eggs and milk. B12 also can be found in fortified breads and cereals. Low levels of B12 in the blood can lead to symptoms of B12 deficiency.
Beef Liver
The daily recommended dietary intake of vitamin B12 is 2.4 mcg in men and women. Beef liver contains the highest amounts of B12 . One slice of beef liver provides about 48 mcg of vitamin B12 per serving, but should be eaten in moderation because it contains high levels of LDL, or "bad cholesterol," which can threaten your cardiovascular system.
Symptoms of Deficiency
Strict vegetarians and vegans, and patients with digestive disorders are at increased risk of vitamin B12 deficiency. Low levels of B12 can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, constipation, loss of appetite, weight loss, soreness of the mouth and tongue, pernicious anemia, numbness and tingling in hands and feet, muscle weakness, loss of balance, depression, memory loss and dementia.
Treatment of Deficiency
Vitamin B12 deficiency is treated using B12 supplements, which are available in oral, sublingual, intranasal and injection forms, according to the Office of Dietary Supplements. Vitamin B12 injections are preferred for patients with severe B12 deficiency and in patients with digestive disorders. B12 injections are administered weekly for severe deficiency or once a month for patients with less-severe symptoms of B12 deficiency. Folic acid supplements are also recommended in patients taking B12 supplements because the two vitamins work well together in assisting the body to produce red blood cells.
Complications of Deficiency
Untreated B12 deficiency can cause permanent damage to the nervous system, organ damage, severe dementia, problems walking, psychosis and developmental delays in children. Patients should make sure they attend all appointments to receive B12 injections to avoid developing B12 deficiency complications.
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