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What's Really Behind Vitamin B12 and Folate Deficiencies?
Published: Nov 04, 2023
Vitamin B12 and folate deficiencies can lead to serious health conditions like megaloblastic anemia and neurological issues. Understanding their root causes is crucial for effective treatment and prevention.
The Role of Diet
Most people get enough vitamin B12 and folate from a balanced diet, but vegans and vegetarians may need supplements since plant foods lack vitamin B12. Folate is abundant in leafy greens and fortified grains, making deficiency rare with a diverse diet.
Understanding Absorption
Vitamin B12 absorption is complex, involving several steps from the stomach to the intestine. Issues like pernicious anemia or medications can disrupt this process. Folate absorption occurs mostly in the small intestine and can be affected by intestinal disorders.
Common Causes of Deficiencies
Vitamin B12 deficiency often results from poor absorption due to conditions like pernicious anemia or long-term use of certain medications. Folate deficiency is less common but can occur with poor diet or absorption issues, especially in people with increased needs like pregnant women.
Frequently Asked Questions
It's a type of anemia caused by impaired DNA synthesis due to vitamin B12 or folate deficiency.
Vegans typically require supplements as plant-based foods don't contain vitamin B12.
Folate deficiencies are rare in countries with food fortification, but vitamin B12 deficiencies are common, especially in older adults.
Vitamin B12 stores can last 1-2 years, while folate stores may last weeks to months.
Yes, medications like metformin and acid blockers can impair vitamin B12 absorption.
Wrapping Up
Understanding the causes of vitamin B12 and folate deficiencies is key to effective management and prevention.
References
- https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminB12-HealthProfessional/
- Bunn HF. Vitamin B12 and pernicious anemia--the dawn of molecular medicine. N Engl J Med 2014; 370:773.
- Reynolds EH. The neurology of folic acid deficiency. Handb Clin Neurol 2014; 120:927.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
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