Am I At Risk Of Vitamin B12 Deficiency?

Are you older than 75?

Are you vegans or strict vegetarians?

Do you eat diet does not include meat, poultry, fish, milk, cheese, fortified soymilk and cereals?

Have you had surgery to your stomach or small intestine, such as gastric bypass surgery?

Do you have an intestinal disease, such as Crohn's disease or celiac disease?

Do you have a diagnosis of pernicious anemia?

Do you have a family history of vitamin B12 deficiency anemia?

Do you have endocrine-related autoimmune disorders, such as diabetes or thyroid disease?

Do you have intestinal parasites?

Are you a heavy drinker (use of alcoholic beverages to excess, either on individual occasions (binge drinking) or as a regular practice)?

Do you take medication for diabetes, acidity and indigestion?

Do you have stomach ulcers, chronic gastritis, or atrophic gastritis?

Do you have HIV?

Based on your answers you have a low risk for vitamin B12 deficiency. Vitamin B12 is a B vitamin that helps your body to produce healthy and functional red blood cells. Usually, a diet low in meat, eggs and milk can result in vitamin B12 deficiency. Vitamin B12 deficiency is a common condition that affects between 1.5% and 15% of people in the U.S. It develops gradually so it can be difficult to identify. Consult with your doctor or a nutritionist about your eating habits or any possible symptoms you have. Eating a well-balanced diet is the key to prevent vitamin B12 deficiency.

Based on your answers you have a moderate risk for vitamin B12 deficiency. Vitamin B12, also called cobalamin, is a water-soluble vitamin that plays an important role in the normal functioning of the brain and the production of red blood cells. The only natural way to get vitamin B12 is by eating a healthy diet that includes meat, poultry, fish, milk, cheese, fortified soy milk and cereals. If you are a vegetarian, have malabsorption syndrome (a condition that interferes with food absorption), or have had weight loss surgery, talk to your doctor about checking your vitamin B12 levels. He may suggest dietary changes or vitamin B12 supplements.

Based on your answers you have a high risk for vitamin B12 deficiency. Vitamin B12 is a vital nutrient for normal production of red blood cells. With a lack of vitamin B12, your body cannot produce enough red blood cells that carry oxygen to the tissues and organs, resulting in improper functioning of your body. Please, see your doctor about your symptoms. If you have a restrictive diet that does not includes meat, eggs and milk consult with a nutritionist. Vitamin B12 deficiency can cause serious neurologic and blood disorders, if left untreated. Alcohol use can play a role in vitamin B12 deficiency, so drink it in moderation.