Vitamin B12 is a water soluble vitamin, essential for
proper red cell formation, neurological function and DNA synthesis. Its
deficiency is very common affecting 1.5-15% of the general population, the
cause being unknown. Its deficiency results in anaemia, fatigue, weakness,
constipation, weight loss, neurological problems like tingling and numbness in
hands and feet, neuropathy, poor memory, confusion and sore mouth.
Maternal vitamin B12 deficiency is associated with the
increased risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes like low birth weight
babies, premature delivery and neural tube defects i.e. defects affecting the
brain and spinal cord of the fetus. During infancy it could result in lack of
weight gain, delayed development of milestones, poor mentation and
megaloblastic anemia.
The natural sources of vitamin B12 are fish, meat, poultry, eggs
and milk products, fish and red meat being excellent sources. Vegetarian diet
is a poor source of the vitamin.
Maternal vitamin B12 levels gradually decline throughout
the normal pregnancy, thus requiring its supplementation during the pregnancy.
Exclusively breastfed infants depend on maternal reserves for their nutritional
needs. A women who is on a vegetarian diet is not able to meet the neonatal
requirements of vitamin B 12. As a result the baby may suffer from significant
neurological damage. Thus such babies often require supplementation to prevent
the effects of its deficiency.
The recommended
daily allowance of vitamin B 12 for healthy adult is 2.4 mcg whereas that
during pregnancy and lactation is 2.6 – 2.8 mcg.
The neurological symptoms of vitamin B 12 deficiency can occur without
anemia, as a result early diagnosis and treatment is essential to prevent
irreversible damage. There are various formulations available for vitamin B 12 supplementation like oral ,
sublingual or injectable, depending upon the individual case requirement.
Appropriate consultation with the physician is advised for management of the
problem.
For more detail
contact us- +91
981943795
Address -Bombay hospital and research centre
203, Level 2, New Wing,12, New Marine Lines,Mumbai 400020.
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