Benefits of B12

The elderly are one of the main at-risk groups for vitamin B12 deficiency, with a deficiency rate estimated between 10 to 15%.3 As we age, our production of hydrochloric acid decreases, leading to a reduction in the digestion and absorption of B12 from food.
By Health First
3 min read
les bienfaits de la b12

Seniors are one of the main groups at risk of vitamin B12 deficiency, with a deficiency rate estimated at 10 to 15%.3 As we age, our production of hydrochloric acid decreases, leading to decreased digestion and absorption of B12 from food. This condition is called atrophic gastritis and affects 10 to 30% of seniors.3 In addition, people with low hydrochloric acid levels are likely to have higher levels of intestinal bacteria than those who consume even more B12. Seniors unable to absorb enough vitamin B12 through their diet must obtain it through an oral or injectable supplement. As we will see, a vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to serious health problems for seniors.

 

People with digestive disorders may have difficulty getting enough B12 from their diet. People with celiac disease or Crohn’s disease may not absorb enough vitamin B12 during digestion. In addition, people who have undergone gastrointestinal surgery are at risk of B12 deficiency due to the loss of hydrochloric acid-producing cells.4

 

People with pernicious anemia also have difficulty absorbing vitamin B12. These people lack the intrinsic factor needed to absorb B12.5 Usually, to meet their needs, they must take a high dose of B12 through an oral or injectable supplement.

 

Vegetarians are another group at risk of vitamin B12 deficiency. B12 is only found in animal source foods: fish, meat, poultry, eggs, milk, and dairy products. Plant-based foods do not provide B12 to humans: it was thought that some plant-based products, including vegetables, contained B12, but, in fact, they only contain a pseudovitamin B12 that does not offer the same benefits.6

 

Higher risk groups for vitamin B12 deficiency include:

 

  • seniors (approximately 10 to 15%)
  • people with celiac disease or Crohn’s disease
  • people who have had gastric surgery (nearly one-third)
  • vegetarians
  • people with neuropsychiatric disorders
  • people with chronic fatigue
  • antibiotic users (possible absorption problems)

 

What are the signs of B12 deficiency?

 

To confirm a vitamin B12 deficiency, consult a health professional who will analyze homocysteine and methylmalonic acid levels in your blood.7 Several signs may indicate that this analysis needs to be done.

 

Symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency include:

  • a reduction in red blood cell count (megaloblastic anemia)
  • decreased energy, easily tired, weakness
  • pale skin
  • shortness of breath, palpitations, tingling, numbness
  • cognitive changes: concentration problems, memory loss, irritability
  • diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain, flatulence
  • insomnia
  • loss of appetite/weight
  • visual disturbances
  • sensitive tongue

 

* Note: Avoid self-diagnosis.

 

Benefits of B12 supplementation

 

Studies have shown that supplementation is very effective in treating vitamin B12 deficiency and its associated symptoms. Often touted as an “energy booster,” there is unfortunately only anecdotal evidence to support this claim for people without B12 deficiency.8 However, for people suffering from a B12 deficiency, the results of vitamin B12 supplementation can be surprising: it can treat many symptoms of a vitamin B12 deficiency. Supplementation can help treat megaloblastic anemia (reduced red blood cells and low hemoglobin), low energy, fatigue, and cognitive problems, including difficulty concentrating, mood swings, and memory problems.

 

If some of these problems are not treated quickly, they can become permanent. Due to the severity of the effects of a deficiency, some doctors recommend that all elderly patients have their B12 levels checked.9 B12 has also been studied to help prevent allergic reactions to sulfites.10

 

B12, a member of the vitamin B family, is an important nutrient for maintaining human health. B12 is involved in many metabolic functions, including red blood cell formation, neurological function, DNA synthesis, and the metabolization of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins.1

 

Although most of us get enough of this vitamin through our daily diet, there are several groups, representing nearly 15% of the total population, at risk of a deficiency that can have serious consequences.2

 

References:

  1. Vitamin B12 Monograph. Health Canada. January 29, 2014.
  2. Dietary Supplement Fact Sheet: Vitamin B12. Office of Dietary Supplements
    • National Institutes of Health. June 24, 2011.
  3. Dietary Supplement Fact Sheet: Vitamin B12. Office of Dietary Supplements
  4. PDR for Nutritional Supplements. Medical Economics Company Inc. 2001. p. 482.
  5. Dietary Supplement Fact Sheet: Vitamin B12. Office of Dietary Supplements
  6. PDR for Nutritional Supplements. Medical Economics Company Inc. 2001. p. 481.
  7. p. 482.
  8. p. 482.