Vitamin B12, a nutrient found in most animal-based foods, plays a role in many important body functions, including red blood cell production and neurological function. The body needs healthy red blood cells to supply oxygen to its organs, tissues and cells. Vitamin B12 deficiency anemia, a condition characterized by low red blood cell count, causes symptoms of fatigue and weakness.
Vitamin B12 Deficiency Symptoms
Vitamin B12 deficiency can cause symptoms similar to those that occur with overworking or lack of sleep. Common symptoms include fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath, light-headedness, difficulty concentrating, loss of appetite, pale skin and sore tongue. Untreated B12 deficiency may cause nerve damage or neurological problems, with symptoms such as numbness and tingling, balance problems, confusion, depression, poor memory and dementia. Vitamin B12 deficiency develops gradually, and a mild deficiency may not cause noticeable symptoms, notes the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Symptoms of untreated vitamin B12 deficiency typically worsen over time.
Causes of Vitamin B12 Deficiency
A lack of vitamin B12 in the diet or an inability to absorb the vitamin can cause vitamin B12 deficiency. Because B12 occurs naturally only in animal products, vegetarians and vegans may not get sufficient amounts of this vitamin in their diets. Vitamin B12 deficiency can also occur in individuals with underlying conditions that hinder the body's absorption of nutrients. Atrophic gastritis, celiac disease, Crohn's disease and pernicious anemia can all hinder the body's ability to absorb vitamin B12.
Treatment
Consult your doctor if you suspect you have vitamin B12 deficiency. Treatments for this condition vary according to the cause of the deficiency. Doctors typically treat B12 deficiencies with intramuscular injections, especially when an underlying cause prevents proper absorption of the vitamin. Doctors may also prescribe high oral doses of vitamin B12.
Vitamin B12 Intake and Sources
Children ages 4 to 8 need 1.2 mcg of vitamin B12 per day and children ages 9 to 13 need 1.8 mcg per day, according to the National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements. Adolescents and adults ages 14 and over need 2.4 mcg per day, and pregnant women need 2.6 mcg per day. Most people should be able to get sufficient vitamin B12 from a healthy diet that includes animal products such as meat, poultry, fish, eggs and dairy. Foods highest in vitamin B12 include beef liver, clams, trout, salmon, haddock and tuna. Individuals with dietary restrictions or absorption problems can get additional vitamin B12 from fortified cereals and dietary supplements.
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