Vitamin B-12 is part of the B-vitamin complex. These vitamins are important in many of the body's functions, including the health maintenance of the nervous system and the manufacturing of DNA. Vitamin B-12 in particular is important for the production of red blood cells, the cells that carry oxygen throughout the body. If you don't absorb enough vitamin B-12, you can develop a condition called megaloblastic anemia.
Sources of Vitamin B-12
Vitamin B-12 is present in many foods, including meats, poultry, fish and dairy products. According to Lab Tests Online, the body has several years' worth of vitamin B-12 stored in the liver, so the inability to absorb vitamin B-12 only causes symptoms if it is a chronic condition. Children can exhibit symptoms before adults, since they do not have as large a reservoir of this vitamin. In order for the intestines to absorb vitamin B-12, it needs the presences of a protein called intrinsic factor.
Causes of Vitamin B-12 Malabsorption
There are several reasons why a person may not be able to absorb vitamin B12. The main reason for malabsorption of B-12 is absence of intrinsic factor. According to the National Library of Medicine, the stomach secretes intrinsic factor to facilitate the absorption of vitamin B-12 from the intestine. Without this protein, the intestine is unable to absorb vitamin B-12. Pernicious anemia is a condition in which the immune system attacks the cells in the stomach that secrete intrinsic factor, leading to vitamin B-12 deficiency. Other causes of vitamin B-12 deficiency include conditions that cause general malabsorption, such as Crohn's disease, celiac disease and chronic alcoholism.
Symptoms of Megaloblastic Anemia
Vitamin B-12 deficiency causes megaloblastic anemia. This condition causes decreased numbers of red blood cell that are abnormally big, making them inefficient in their job of transporting oxygen to the tissues. The symptoms of megaloblastic anemia include weakness, fatigue, paleness and lightheadedness when standing or when exercising. Other symptoms include diarrhea or constipation, difficulty concentrating, confusion and tingling and numbness of the hands and feet.
Treatment and Prevention
People with vitamin B-12 may need monthly B-12 injections to correct the deficiency. If you are exhibiting severe symptoms, you may need more frequent injections. Severe anemia may need correction with a blood transfusion, particularly if the person exhibits signs of inadequate oxygen supply to the heart or brain, like chest pain or loss of consciousness. A well-balanced diet is important to prevent the consequences of vitamin B-12 and other nutrient deficiencies.
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