Managing Vitamin B12 deficiency: A Comprehensive Guide

Vitamin B12 represents a group of water soluble vitamin which is necessary for the production of red blood cells and other functions such as DNA synthesis and neurologic functions. Cyanocobalamin is a man-made form of vitamin B12 used to prevent and treat low blood levels of vitamin B12. Most people receive enough vitamin B12 from their diet. However serious vitamin B12 deficiency in some cases may result in a low number of red blood cells (anemia), stomach/intestine problems and permanent nerve damage. B12 deficiency could be seen in certain health conditions such as intestinal/stomach problems, poor nutrition, cancer, HIV infection, pregnancy, old age, alcoholism and in people who follow a strict vegetarian (vegan) diet. Accordingly early diagnosis and treatment of vitamin B12 deficiency is important to avoid any serious health problems. The diagnosis of vitamin B12 deficiency includes both clinical assessment and laboratory tests to ensure an accurate diagnosis and treatment afterward.