Unless you balance your diet meticulously chances are you will be missing out on at least one or two vital vitamins and minerals. Whilst supplements go some way in correcting a minor deficiency, a shortage of B12 can cause anaemia. As leading providers of B12 shots in London, Kuer offer our knowledge about identifying the deficiency and finding a suitable treatment.
What is B12?
B12 is essentially a vitamin found in meat, fish and dairy products. As well as being an integral part of a healthy, balanced diet, B12 is also utilised to prevent memory loss, and is even used to relieve the symptoms associated with Alzheimer’s disease. B12 actively boosts mood, increases energy levels, slows aging and aids the immune system.
B12 deficiency however is particularly common, and whilst the cause of pernicious anaemia is unknown, it is widespread amongst women over 60, those with a family history of pernicious anaemia and individuals with autoimmune conditions like Addison’s disease and vitiligo.
Do I have a B12 deficiency?
If you have the following symptoms then you may have vitamin B12 deficiency anaemia:
- Fatigue
- Low energy levels
- Breathing difficulties
- Dizziness
- Headaches
- Palpitations
- Tinnitus
- Unexplained weight loss
- Lack of appetite
- Pale skin tone with a yellow tinge
- Depression
- Increased irritability
- Mouth ulcers or glossitis
The symptoms of B12 deficiency are similar to the symptoms associated with anaemia, and whilst these develop gradually seeking diagnosis and subsequent treatment is important.
How is the deficiency treated?
Treatment can be delivered via a course of B12 shots. Medically referred to as hydroxocobalamin, B12 shots are administered daily for two weeks, although your doctor may continue treatment until your symptoms have subsided. If your deficiency is diet-related, you will also be given advice about how you can introduce foods containing B12 to your diet.