A new report shows that vitamin B12 deficiency threatens hundreds of millions of people worldwide, often without their awareness, due to the essential role this vitamin plays in nerve and brain health. Its deficiency can lead to fatigue, lethargy, and growth issues. The sign of fatigue, which is an indicator of vitamin B12 deficiency, increases with age. Doctors often associate the fatigue of the elderly with insufficient intake of vitamins and minerals, primarily vitamin B12.
In a previous study from Harvard Medical School, researchers described vitamin B12 deficiency as deceptive and harmful, emphasizing the strong relationship between this vitamin and the nervous system. It significantly affects the health of the brain, nerves, and tissues in older adults, and contributes to invigorating and stimulating blood circulation.
Public health expert Jazla Fida stated, "Vitamin B12 is essential for the formation and maturation of red blood cells, as it works with folic acid to create these cells." She added that this vitamin also assists in the formation of DNA and plays a role in creating the membranes of proteins and fats that envelop nerve fibers in the brain and spinal cord. Therefore, when there is a deficiency of this vitamin, it can lead to nerve damage, dizziness, muscle weakness, difficulties in walking, and may even progress to dementia.
She noted that this vitamin is primarily found in animal products such as meat, salmon, milk, eggs, and cheese. Some believe that only vegetarians suffer from this problem; however, she clarified that there are alternatives that provide this vitamin, such as vitamin B12-fortified cereals, almonds, peanuts, soy milk, and oat milk. She added that non-vegetarians can also experience a deficiency due to issues related to liver storage and absorption in the stomach.
