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Vitamin B12 deficiency occurs when there is an abnormally low
level of vitamin B12 absorbed in the body. Vitamin B12
deficiency can be a factor in a variety of different health
conditions and disorders. B12 deficiency inhibits the body’s ability
to produce blood, increases blood cell destruction, and is very
harmful to the nervous system. Pernicious anemia (PA) is the name of
the condition that occurs as a result of severe vitamin B12
deficiency. This condition is usually caused by lack of intrinsic
factor in the intestine that is required for the body to properly
absorb vitamin B12.
However, even if the body contains ample
amounts of intrinsic factor, vitamin B12 deficiency may be caused by
a number of malabsorption disorders. Celiac disease and Crohn’s
disease are common causes of malabsorption that can lead to vitamin
B12 deficiency and pernicious anemia. Some less common causes may
include gastrointestinal surgery, pancreatic disease, intestinal
parasites, and certain drugs.
Pernicious anemia is a very
serious condition that requires medical
attention.
Nutritional supplements that may be
helpful in treating vitamin B12
deficiency
Supplementing with 3 to 4 mcg of vitamin
B12 per day may be required for individuals prone to vitamin B12
deficiency. If vitamin B12 is being taken as a dietary supplement to
prevent deficiency in those that are prone to only a small daily
dose is usually required. For those suffering from vitamin B12
deficiency, many doctors recommend a vitamin B12 injection. The
injection can then be followed up by oral supplementation of 500 to
1,000 mcp of vitamin B12 per day until the deficiency is back under
control. To prevent future deficiency, a maintenance level of
approximately 10 mcp per day is recommended.
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