If a vitamin B12 deficit is not treated for a long period of time, the neurological system can be damaged.
If you are using supplements, it is critical not to exceed the recommended dosage, as this might be dangerous.
Folate, also known as folic acid, helps the body build healthy red blood cells, reducing the risk of anemia and its symptoms, as well as the risk of neural birth abnormalities in expecting mothers.
Folate obtained through food sources such as broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and leafy green vegetables is not retained by the body for an extended period of time.
As a result, these foods must be consumed often to avoid health issues.
If you’ve been taking folic acid pills, be cautious because amounts of folic acid of more than 1mg might “mask the symptoms of [a] vitamin B12 deficiency,” according to British experts.
In the long run, a vitamin B12 shortage can cause damage to the nervous system if ignored.
If you’re on folic acid supplements, taking too much folic acid can be dangerous.
Low levels of vitamin B12, for example, can result in:
- Extreme tiredness
- A lack of energy
- Pins and needles (paraesthesia)
- A sore and red tongue
- Mouth ulcers
- Muscle weakness
- Disturbed vision
- Psychological problems, which may include depression and confusion
- Problems with memory, understanding and judgement.
If you think you might be lacking in vitamin B12, make an appointment with your doctor right away.
It’s critical to diagnose and treat vitamin B12 or folate deficient anemia as soon as possible.
This is because, while many symptoms resolve with treatment, some of the problems presented by the illness are permanent.
A vitamin B12 shortage can occur for a variety of causes, and it isn’t just due to dietary issues.
Pernicious anemia, for example, is an inflammatory disease that limits the absorption of vitamin B12.
While the actual etiology of pernicious anemia is unknown, the condition is usually treated with a B12 injection.
Pernicious anaemia is a long-term condition, so you’ll need vitamin B12 injections every two to three months for the rest of your life to keep your body healthy.
If your diet is the cause of your vitamin B12 deficiency, you may need to take prescribed vitamin B12 tablets in between meals.
Meat, fish, eggs, and dairy products are all good sources of vitamin B12; vegans, on the other hand, are at danger of vitamin B12 deficiency if they do not consume fortified foods.
The side effects of a vitamin B12 deficiency are less likely to be hidden if you take less than 1mg of folic acid every day.
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