Vitamin B12 is a crucial vitamin for neurons and blood cells. However, 1-4 out of 10 people have a deficiency, often without realizing it, especially in Latin American countries. The symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency include:
* Neurological symptoms: pain, tingling, numbness, and loss of balance
* Anemia: pale skin, tiredness, and jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
* Behavioral changes: irritability, depression, and extreme tiredness
* Glossitis: inflammation of the tongue, causing a smooth, red, and painful tongue
* Loss of taste
Vitamin B12 is found in animal products, such as meat, dairy, eggs, and fish. Vegetarians and vegans are at risk of deficiency if they do not consume fortified foods or supplements.
To prevent deficiency, it is recommended to:
* Consume 2.4 micrograms of vitamin B12 per day
* Eat animal products, such as liver, meat, and dairy
* Consider supplements or fortified foods if vegetarian or vegan
* Consult a doctor if taking antacids, medications, or having surgery
At-risk groups include:
* Adults over 50 years old
* Pregnant women
* Breastfeeding mothers
* Diabetics taking metformin
* Patients with celiac disease, Crohn's disease, or stomach/intestinal surgery
Treatment for severe symptoms may include injections of vitamin B12, while oral supplements may be effective for mild cases. A healthy diet and responsible planning can help prevent vitamin B12 deficiency.
Here are the key facts extracted from the text:
1. Vitamin B12 is essential for the proper functioning of neurons and red blood cells.
2. 1 to 4 out of 10 people have a deficiency of vitamin B12.
3. Vitamin B12 deficiency can cause symptoms such as pain, numbness, and tingling in the fingers and toes.
4. Severe cases of vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to loss of balance, behavioral changes, and anemia.
5. Vitamin B12 is necessary for the production of myelin, a protective layer around nerve cables.
6. Without vitamin B12, myelin cannot be generated properly, leading to nerve damage.
7. Vitamin B12 is found in animal-based foods, such as meat, fish, and dairy products.
8. Vegetarians and vegans are at risk of vitamin B12 deficiency if they do not consume enough fortified foods or supplements.
9. Pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers need to consume more vitamin B12 than non-pregnant women.
10. Adults over 50 years old are at risk of vitamin B12 deficiency due to decreased gastric acid production.
11. Patients with diabetes, celiac disease, and intestinal inflammation are also at risk of vitamin B12 deficiency.
12. Vitamin B12 is absorbed in the small intestine with the help of intrinsic factor, a protein produced in the stomach.
13. Taking antacids can decrease the absorption of vitamin B12.
14. Treatment for vitamin B12 deficiency typically involves injections or oral supplements.
15. The recommended daily intake of vitamin B12 is 2.4 micrograms.
16. The liver stores a large amount of vitamin B12, equivalent to 1000-2000 times the daily recommended intake.
17. Vitamin B12 deficiency can cause a range of symptoms, including fatigue, weakness, and neurological problems.
18. A smooth, red, and painful tongue (glossitis) can be a symptom of vitamin B12 deficiency.
19. Vitamin B12 deficiency can cause anemia, which can lead to symptoms such as pale skin, tiredness, and shortness of breath.
20. The skin and eyes can turn yellowish due to increased bilirubin levels, a symptom of vitamin B12 deficiency.