9 IMPORTANT FACTS ABOUT VITAMIN B12

9 IMPORTANT FACTS ABOUT VITAMIN B12

  • Symptoms of low Vitamin B12 include anemia (causing fatigue and paleness), loss of appetite, nerve damage with tingling, numbness and poor balance, poor vision, delusions
  • The only foods with Vitamin B12 come from animals:  meat, fish/shellfish, poultry, eggs, milk and some cheeses
  • Strict vegetarians are at risk because B12 is not present in plant sources
  • Some grains are fortified with B12 (meaning that B12 is added)
  • Up to 20% of all adults over 50 may have borderline deficiency (they have less stomach acid)
  • Blood tests can detect deficiencies
  • Acid blockers (and weight loss surgery) may interfere with complete B12 absorption
  • Crohnies (those with Crohn's disease) with severe disease of the terminal ileum or surgery and UCees (those with ulcerative colitis) who have backwash ileitis are at extra risk
  •  Monthly shots and weekly nasal sprays are available for those who can't absorb B12

This article, as well as all others, was reviewed and edited by a member of our Medical Advisory Board.

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