Vitamin B12

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Vitamin B12, crucial for nerve function and red blood cell formation, is primarily found in animal-derived foods like meat, fish, and dairy.

Impact of Gene Variants

Genetic variations can affect the absorption, transport, and metabolism of vitamin B12, potentially leading to deficiencies even with adequate dietary intake.

Ways to Recognize Problems

Symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency may include fatigue, weakness, tingling sensations, cognitive issues, and anemia. Blood tests measuring serum B12 levels and markers like methylmalonic acid help diagnose deficiency.

Ways to Improve

Increasing intake of B12-rich foods or taking supplements can address deficiency. For individuals with absorption issues, B12 injections or sublingual supplements may be necessary to bypass absorption barriers.

Did you know

Vitamin B12 deficiency affects between 1.5% and 15% of the public.