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Vitamin B12 Deficiency Causes

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One of the nutritional problems related to vitamins that affect millions of people around the World is vitamin B12 deficiency, yet many people still don't understand the causes, and what could have triggered a problem of this kind. Understanding the causes is important to prevent problems in the future. So, well, let's take a look at them:

Malnutrition

The diet can play an important role in the development of this condition. We must ensure we follow a diet that provides us with enough levels of all vitamins. In this sense, vegan/vegetarian people are in trouble, since B12 is found mainly on animal food. In order to prevent a the symptoms of b 12 deficiency, people under this lifestyle must take B12 supplements or eat fortified cereals.

Stomach Problems

This is another one of the vitamin B12 deficiency causes. In this case, we are talking about problems with the absorption of the vitamin. Among the causes of this problem we have the action of some diseases (like Crohn's disease); and surprisingly to many, the action of some medicines and surgeries that interfere with the proper absorption of B12 by our bodies.

Sadly, this is the result of many modern medications that help us in some way, but in other way they leave us with problems and serious side effects (of all kinds).

Pernicious Anemia

Pernicious anemia is a common condition found mostly in women 50+ years old. Although this is not a condition excusive to women, we know that they are a primary target - especially when doctors can determine a certain type of genetic predisposition. If you are within the risk group, and you believe you are suffering from a B12 deficiency, it would be a great idea to undergo testing. In this case, testing consists of a blood test done in a special lab.

The deficiency in this specific case, is caused by an autoimmune disease, as antibodies form against the intrinsic factor, which is essential for the proper absorption of vitamin B12. This is what is known about this cause, yet, the trigger that causes the formation of antibodies is not fully understood by specialists and doctors.

These are the main vitamin B12 deficiency causes. Of the three ways that you can develop it, we know that we have control over any malnutrition problem. Nowadays in the market, there is a wide variety of vitamin supplements, and more specifically, B12 supplements. It s better t consult with a doctor about the proper dosage to avoid any problem of toxicity.