Vitamin B12 Effects & Deficiencies - Questions & Answers

Vitamin B12 is a water-soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy nervous system, forming red blood cells, and keeping the body's metabolism in good working order. It's an essential nutrient that can only be obtained through consuming food or supplements, and it's essential for human health.

Popular questions about Vitamin B12

Can Lyme disease cause Vitamin B12 deficiency?

Yes, Lyme disease can cause vitamin B12 deficiency. Vitamin B12 is found in many foods and is necessary for proper cellular functioning. When someone has Lyme disease, the body's response to the infection can make it difficult for the body to absorb and use vitamin B12, leading to a deficiency.

Can I give blood if I have Vitamin B12 deficiency?

If you have a Vitamin B12 deficiency, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before giving blood.

Can I take Vitamin B12 during gastritis?

Yes, you can take Vitamin B12 during gastritis as long as it is prescribed by your doctor. Vitamin B12 can help reduce inflammation in the stomach and improve digestion.

Does Vitamin B12 shots make you sweat?

Vitamin B12 shots can make you sweat, as some people may experience a slight fever after the injection due to the body releasing histamines to fight off the foreign substance.

Does Vitamin B12 taste bad?

Vitamin B12 does not have an unpleasant taste. It has a slightly sweet and sour flavor that is not unpleasant.

Does Vitamin B12 thicken your blood?

Vitamin B12 does not thicken your blood. Vitamin B12 is important for red blood cell production, but it does not thicken the blood.

Does Vitamin B12 thin the blood?

Yes, vitamin B12 can thin the blood, but this is not its primary function.

Does Vitamin B12 thin your blood?

Vitamin B12 does not thin the blood, but may help with clotting.

How do I know if I need a Vitamin B12 shot?

If you are experiencing symptoms such as fatigue, anemia, numbness or tingling in the extremities, or difficulty concentrating, you may need to get a Vitamin B12 shot to treat a deficiency. You should speak with your doctor to determine if a Vitamin B12 shot is the right option for you.

How do you know if you need to take Vitamin B12?

You may need to take Vitamin B12 if you notice signs of deficiency, such as tiredness and fatigue, pale skin, brain fog, weakness, constipation, loss of appetite, nerve damage, and/or reduced red blood cell count.

Key facts about Vitamin B12

  1. Vitamin B12 is naturally occurring only in animal products, such as meat, fish, and dairy. Vegetarians and vegans often require supplements to meet their daily needs.
  2. A lack of Vitamin B12 can cause anemia, fatigue, and nerve damage.
  3. People with certain medical conditions, such as Crohn's disease and celiac disease, are more prone to B12 deficiency due to malabsorption.
  4. Vitamin B12 can be absorbed by the body in two different ways, passive diffusion, and active transport. Passive diffusion occurs in the stomach, and active transport happens in the ileum.
  5. Vitamin B12 helps to protect the brain from aging and cognitive decline.
  6. Some studies suggest that Vitamin B12 supplements may aid in the prevention of depression and other mental illnesses.
  7. B12 is also important for pregnant women as it aids in healthy fetal development.
  8. The recommended daily intake of Vitamin B12 for adults is 2.4 micrograms per day, but this can vary depending on age, lifestyle, and medical history.