Have you ever felt constantly fatigued? Or struggled with brain fog? Have you experienced unexplained mood swings? If the answer is ‘Yes’ to all these questions, then you might be missing a vital nutrient in your body: Vitamin B12.
This vitamin B12 plays a vital role in energy production, nerve health, and red blood cell formation. Yet, many people silently suffer from Vitamin B12 deficiency, leading to serious health complications over time.
In this blog, we will learn everything about Vitamin B12 deficiency. Whether you are a health-conscious individual or someone experiencing unexplained symptoms, this guide will help you understand the importance of B12 and how to ensure you’re getting enough.
However, one way to track your Vitamin B12 levels is by booking a Vitamin B12 test in Vadodara.
Let’s get started by first understanding what Vitamin B12 is.
What is Vitamin B12?
Vitamin B12 plays an important role in maintaining your overall health. It helps in supporting DNA production, aids in red blood cell formation, and is crucial for the development of the central nervous system, including the brain and spinal cord.
Furthermore, it makes hair, nails, and skin healthy. Vitamin B12 contains the cobalt mineral, therefore known as cobalamin. Since the body doesn’t produce Vitamin B12 on its own, it must be obtained through animal-based foods like meat or supplements.
As a water-soluble vitamin, any excess is expelled through urine. Although the liver can store B12 for up to five years, a deficiency can still develop over time if intake is insufficient. By booking a Vitamin B12 test in Vadodara, you can determine if your B12 levels are within a healthy range.
Vitamin B12 Rich Foods
If your Vitamin B12 levels are less, you can consume the following food to balance it:
• Meat
• Fish
• Poultry
• Milk
• Eggs
• Fortified breakfast cereals
• Fortified breads
• Nutritional yeasts
• Fortified plant milks
Vitamin B12 Deficiency
Suppose you have checked your Vitamin B12 levels at the best diagnostic centre in India. A deficiency is more common in individuals with medical conditions that hinder B12 absorption or those following a strict vegan diet.
Vitamin B12 & Pernicious Anemia
Pernicious anaemia is an autoimmune disorder that prevents the body from producing intrinsic factors, a protein essential for B12 absorption. Even with a B12-rich diet or supplements, absorption remains impaired, making it the leading cause of B12 deficiency.
Vitamin B12 & Alcohol
Excessive alcohol consumption can hinder B12 absorption and reduce nutrient intake by limiting calorie consumption.
Conclusion
Vitamin B12 levels also start to drop as you age. Many people over 50 produce less stomach acid, limiting B12 absorption from food but not from supplements. Similarly, those who have undergone weight loss or stomach surgery may lack sufficient stomach acid and intrinsic factors, affecting B12 absorption. In the end, if you want to check the levels of your Vitamin B12, you can book the affordable B12 test cost in Vadodara right away!