A deficiency in vitamin B12 is a common cause of fatigue. Other symptoms of a B12 deficiency include weakness, a poor memory and behavioral problems. The body requires vitamin B12 to make red blood cells, synthesize DNA and help manage levels of homocysteine, an amino acid associated with cardiovascular disease. Although the elderly and vegetarians are more likely to have inadequate levels of vitamin B12 because a certain amount of the vitamin is stored in the body, borderline deficiencies might not be identified until they are quite severe. As with all supplements, talk with your primary care physician before taking vitamin B12 supplements.
Step 1
Ask your doctor to test you for a vitamin B12 deficiency. Request that she perform a methylmalonic acid test instead of the more common and less accurate measurement of cobalamin levels. Explain your desire to seek an early diagnosis to prevent the more serious and late-stage symptoms that can cause anemia and chronic fatigue syndrome.
Step 2
Eat daily servings of shellfish, meat, poultry or eggs for adequate amounts of vitamin B12. Because most plant foods lack vitamin B12, add a vitamin B12-fortified breakfast cereal to your daily diet. Take an easily absorbed supplement of 6 to 30 mcg of B12 each day to ensure you are getting a sufficient amount to maintain satisfactory energy levels.
Step 3
Inquire about the efficacy of vitamin B12 injections to increase your energy level. Although the effects of intramuscular administration of B12 remain controversial, proponents suggest the practice might be particularly helpful for the elderly and for those who have digestive disorders that prohibit absorption of the vitamin. Avoid taking excessive amounts of folic acid, which might mask the effects of a B12 deficiency.
Tips and Warnings
- Practicing vegans or vegetarians who are pregnant or nursing should ask their doctor about taking vitamin B12 supplements.
- As with many supplements, vitamin B12 might interact with other medications.
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