Vitamin B-12 is a water-soluble vitamin that is necessary for production of red blood cells, metabolism and maintenance of healthy nerve cells. Vitamin B-12 deficiency can be caused by poor dietary intake or problems with absorption of the vitamin. Acid reflux is a condition in which stomach contents flow backward into the esophagus. Acid reflux is not caused by vitamin B-12 deficiency.
Acid Reflux
Acid reflux is caused by an incompetent lower esophageal sphincter, or LES, according to National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. The LES is a muscle that helps prevent stomach contents from leaking into the esophagus. Several factors can irritate and weaken the LES. Prescription medications such as sedatives, antidepressants and anticholinergics can weaken the LES and cause acid reflux. Consult your doctor if you experience symptoms of acid reflux while taking these drugs. Certain foods can also irritate and weaken the LES. These foods include peppermint, chocolate, citrus fruits, fatty foods, caffeine and carbonated beverages.
Acid Reflux Treatment
Mild acid reflux symptoms are usually treated with over-the-counter antacids such as Maalox and Mylanta. Consult your doctor if acid reflux symptoms last longer than a week or are not relieved by antacids. Your doctor might prescribe acid-reducing drugs. Certain lifestyle modifications can help reduce acid reflux symptoms. Lose weight if you are overweight because excess weight can increase intra-abdominal pressure and cause the LES to remain open. Eat small, frequent meals instead of three large meals to increase gastrointestinal emptying. Avoid bending or lying down immediately after eating. Do not eat at least two to three hours before bedtime. Elevate the head of the bed 6 to 8 inches high to avoid nighttime reflux.
Vitamin B-12 Deficiency
Vitamin B-12 deficiency causes neurological problems and anemia. You may experience symptoms such as muscle weakness, fatigue, loss of appetite, sore tongue, pale skin, numbness and tingling of hands and feet, problems walking, confusion, memory problems, depression, dementia and psychosis, according to MayoClinic.com. Seek early treatment for vitamin B-12 because it can cause permanent neurological damage.
Vitamin B-12 Deficiency Treatment
Vitamin B-12 deficiency is treated with tablets or injections. Vitamin B-12 deficiency caused by malabsorption problems is usually treated with life-long B-12 injections. The shots are injected in deep muscles of the arms, thighs and hips.You can prevent vitamin B-12 deficiency by eating animal foods such as beef liver, lean meat, fish and milk.
