A vitamin B12 deficiency is a problem that troubles people across many demographics. There are a number of different reasons why a person might be experiencing a vitamin B12 deficiency. Some of these are the result of the way the body is functioning, and other causes are lifestyle-based.
The trouble with diagnosing a B12 deficiency is that many of the symptoms of this problem are related to other health issues. The only way to really know for certain is to have a professional test you for a vitamin B12 deficiency. However, there are some factors that are pretty obvious culprits for a deficiency, and if you know these factors, it may help you to determine if you have this deficiency.
You are a Vegan
Unless you supplement B12 into your diet, then chances are your vegan diet is going to lead to a vitamin B12 deficiency. The simple reality is that a strict vegan diet is devoid in sources of vitamin B12, and consuming foods that are high in B12 analogs, as some vegans do, can actually accelerate a B12 deficiency in such individuals.
You are Over the Age of 50
If you are not a vegan, but you are a person over 50 who consumes animal products, then you could still find yourself suffering with a vitamin B12 deficiency. When you get over the age of 50, it is common for the body to stop producing so much stomach acid. Unfortunately, stomach acid is required to help the body absorb vitamin B12 in sufficient quantities. To compound this problem, you might be on acid-reducing medications.
Excessive Alcohol Consumption
If you have a tendency to drink a lot of alcohol, then chances are you may be setting yourself up for a vitamin B12 deficiency, or you could already have one. When alcohol consumption leads to gastritis, this can impair the stomach’s ability to produce sufficient acid to allow for B12 absorption from your diet. Alcohol also diminishes your B12 in other ways as well.
A Closer Look at Vitamin B12 Injections
At Soza Clinic, we are proud to offer our patients vitamin B12 injections. We have offices located in Bedford, Frisco, and Richardson. Contact us today to book an appointment and get all the facts about how these injections work!
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