Are You at Risk for Vitamin B12 Deficiency?
Are You at Risk for Vitamin B12 Deficiency?
Assess Your Risk
Understanding the risk factors for vitamin B12 deficiency is crucial for prevention. Find out if you might be at risk and what you can do about it.
Contents
- Common Risk Factors
- Impact of Age and Lifestyle
Common Risk Factors
Risk factors for vitamin B12 deficiency include a vegan or vegetarian diet, gastric surgery, certain intestinal disorders, and prolonged use of certain medications. People in these categories should be aware of their vitamin B12 levels and consider regular monitoring.
Impact of Age and Lifestyle
Older individuals and those with limited dietary variety are also at risk. Lifestyle factors such as chronic use of alcohol or metformin can further increase the risk. Regular check-ups can help detect deficiencies early.
FAQs
Who is at high risk?
Vegans and gastric surgery patients.
Does age affect risk?
Yes, older adults are more at risk.
Can lifestyle impact B12 levels?
Yes, factors like alcohol use can increase risk.
Should everyone be tested?
High-risk individuals should consider testing.
The Bottom Line
Could your lifestyle or diet be putting you at risk for vitamin B12 deficiency?
Additional References
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Neurologic impairment in children associated with maternal dietary deficiency of cobalamin--Georgia, 2001.
- Antony AC. Vegetarianism and vitamin B-12 (cobalamin) deficiency. Am J Clin Nutr 2003; 78:3.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.