Vitamin Deficiency Symptoms

A reduction in vitamin B12 in our bodies can lead us to this vitamin B12 deficiency, often caused by improper Vitamin absorption and a wrong dietary intake. Vitamin B12 is a B complex vitamin that works in the formation of red blood cells, formation of tissue and also helps in repairing cells and in DNA synthesis.

This type of deficiency goes unnoticed most of the time, especially in adults, because our bodies store vitamin B12 for up to 5 years! Only small children show the symptoms of this condition faster, as they have not already stored the necessary amount of this vitamin. Although the condition can go unnoticed, a serious deficiency can bring equally serious signs like anemia and even subacute combined degeneration of the spinal cord.

The type of anemia produced by a prolonged deficiency of B12 is called macrocytic anemia. In it, our body produces larger red blood cells, but in less quantities and with decreased capabilities to carry oxygen. The symptoms of this condition are light-headedness, weakness and difficulty breathing.

How to Treat Vitamin B12 Deficiency?

To avoid complications it is better to raise our levels of this vitamin. In pregnant women this is very important because the deficiency will be more intense during pregnancy and this can lead to problems in the child.

To treat this deficiency, doctors will give you supplement in the form of oral pills, liquid, strips, injections and even intranasal sprays. However nowadays, the preferred working method to treat this, is through sublingual and intranasal administration. Sublingual administration has also the advantage (along with injections) to avoid the risks of allergic reactions.

To also prevent deficiency problems it is good to integrate food that is rich in vitamin B12 in our diet, including: milk, milk products, fish, poultry, eggs, meat and fortified breakfast cereals.