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Volume 4 Issue 3

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Treatment for Vitamin B12 Deficiency If you have pernicious anemia or a problem with its absorption, you'll need to replace vitamin B12 by injection initially and then continued injections or high doses of an oral replacement. If the issue is that you don't eat animal products, you can change your diet to include vitamin B12- fortified grains, a supplement or B12 injections, or a high-dose oral sublingual vitamin B12 if you are deficient. The elderly should take a daily sublingual B12. Preventing Deficiency Problems Most people can prevent vitamin B12 deficiency by eating enough meat, poultry, seafood, dairy products, and eggs. If you don't eat animal products, or you have a medical condition that limits how well your body absorbs nutrients, take a sublingual methylated B12, the superior B12. Symptoms of Vitamin B12 Deficiency A deficiency of vitamin B12 can lead to anemia. A mild deficiency may cause no symptoms. But if untreated, it may progress and cause symptoms such as: • Weakness, tiredness, or light-headedness • Heart palpitations and shortness of breath • Pale skin • A smooth tongue • Constipation, diarrhea, a loss of appetite, or gas • Nerve problems like numbness or tingling, muscle weakness, and problems walking • Vision loss • Mental problems like depression, memory loss, or behavioral changes If you think you have symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency, you can ask your doctor for a blood test. Infants who are born to vegan mothers and exclusively breast-fed are at risk for anemia, developmental delays, weakness, and failure to thrive. Vitamin Deficiency Abby's Magazine - Volume 4 Issue 3 | Page 41

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