Nutrient deficiencies have become a global problem in the last food decades, mostly because of the lack of minerals and vitamins in the soil and the unhealthy food we eat. These deficiencies occur when the body is unable to absorb the required amount of some nutrients caused by aging, pregnancy, some health conditions or surgery. Here are the most common nutrient deficiencies in the USA:
- Iodine deficiency;
- Calcium deficiency;
- Iron deficiency;
- Magnesium deficiency;
- Vitamins A, B12 and D deficiencies.
Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12 (cobalamin) is an important nutrient that is required for proper blood formation and nerve function. As the body can’t produce it on its own, we usually take it through food sources. Here are the main risk factors for lack of vitamin B12 in the body:
High homocysteine levels
Homocysteine is a result of protein breakdown and when present in high levels, it can raise the risk of stroke, heart attack and Alzheimer’s disease.
Improper infant development
Lack of vitamin B12 in the body is especially dangerous for the physical and mental development of infants. This deficiency has been related to numerous abnormalities which is why you should keep its levels in check.
Cognitive disorders
Several studies have shown a link between lack of vitamin B12, dementia and depression. The deficiency can be so severe that even proper vitamin B12 supplementation can’t reverse the damage already done.
Megaloblastic anemia
Megaloblastic anemia occurs when the bone marrow creates abnormal red blood cells which don’t allow proper oxygen distribution to the cells. The condition manifests through symptoms such as fatigue, diarrhea, muscle weakness and accumulation of waste in the body and is caused by low vitamin B12 levels.
Although everyone is at risk of suffering from vitamin B12 deficiency, the following groups are more prone to it:
- Pregnant and breastfeeding women;
- Bariatric surgery patients;
- Vegans and vegetarians;
- People suffering from gastrointestinal problems.
Here are the main symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency:
Lack of iron
Vitamin B12 and iron deficiency are related as the vitamin increases the mineral’s bioavailability.
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