Causes Of Vitamin B12 Deficiency In Young Adults
Introduction
Vitamin B12 is an essential nutrient required by the human body for various functions. It plays a crucial role in the production of red blood cells, DNA synthesis, and proper nervous system function. However, many young adults are deficient in this vitamin, which can lead to several health complications. In this article, we will explore the causes of vitamin B12 deficiency in young adults.
What is Vitamin B12?
Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is a water-soluble vitamin that is found in animal-based foods such as meat, fish, eggs, and dairy products. It is necessary for the proper functioning of the brain and nervous system, as well as the formation of red blood cells.
Causes of Vitamin B12 Deficiency in Young Adults
1. Vegan or Vegetarian Diet
Young adults who follow a vegan or vegetarian diet are at a higher risk of vitamin B12 deficiency as they do not consume animal-based foods which are the primary source of this vitamin. Thus, it is recommended that they consume vitamin B12 fortified foods or supplements to meet their daily requirements.
2. Pernicious Anemia
Pernicious anemia is an autoimmune disorder that affects the stomach lining, leading to the destruction of cells that produce intrinsic factor, a protein required for the absorption of vitamin B12. Young adults with pernicious anemia are unable to absorb vitamin B12 from their diet, which can lead to deficiency.
3. Gastrointestinal Disorders
Young adults with gastrointestinal disorders such as Crohn's disease, celiac disease, or inflammatory bowel disease are at a higher risk of vitamin B12 deficiency. These disorders can affect the absorption of vitamin B12 from the diet, leading to deficiency.
4. Gastric Bypass Surgery
Young adults who have undergone gastric bypass surgery are also at a higher risk of vitamin B12 deficiency. This is because the surgery can affect the absorption of vitamin B12 from the diet, leading to deficiency.
5. Alcoholism
Young adults who consume excessive amounts of alcohol are at a higher risk of vitamin B12 deficiency. Alcohol can damage the stomach lining, leading to a decrease in the production of intrinsic factor, which is required for the absorption of vitamin B12.
6. Medications
Some medications such as metformin, proton pump inhibitors, and histamine receptor antagonists can affect the absorption of vitamin B12 from the diet, leading to deficiency in young adults.
Symptoms of Vitamin B12 Deficiency
The symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency in young adults may include fatigue, weakness, pale skin, tingling or numbness in the hands and feet, difficulty walking or balance problems, and depression.
Treatment and Prevention
The treatment and prevention of vitamin B12 deficiency in young adults depend on the underlying cause. For those with pernicious anemia, vitamin B12 injections are necessary to correct the deficiency. For those with gastrointestinal disorders, treatment of the underlying disorder is necessary. Young adults who follow a vegan or vegetarian diet may need to take vitamin B12 supplements or consume fortified foods to meet their daily requirements. It is essential to maintain a balanced diet and to limit alcohol consumption to prevent vitamin B12 deficiency.
Conclusion
Young adults are at risk of vitamin B12 deficiency due to various factors such as diet, gastrointestinal disorders, and medication use. It is crucial to recognize the symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency and seek treatment promptly to prevent complications. Maintaining a balanced diet and limiting alcohol consumption can help prevent vitamin B12 deficiency in young adults.