VITAMIN B12

Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin)

Vitamin B12 is a water-soluble vitamin essential for:

• 🧠 Nerve function

• 🩸 Red blood cell production

• 🧬 DNA synthesis

• ⚡ Energy metabolism

🧪 Vitamin B12 Blood Test

The serum Vitamin B12 test measures the amount of B12 in your blood to detect deficiency or, rarely, excess.

📊 Normal Levels (Adults)

(Ranges may vary slightly by laboratory.)

⚠️ Vitamin B12 Deficiency

Common Causes:

• Vegetarian or vegan diet (B12 mainly in animal foods)

• Poor absorption (e.g., pernicious anemia)

• Stomach surgery

• Long-term antacid use

• Intestinal disorders

Symptoms:

• Fatigue and weakness

• Pale skin

• Numbness or tingling in hands/feet

• Memory problems

• Mood changes

• Glossitis (smooth tongue)

Severe deficiency can cause megaloblastic anemia and nerve damage.

🥩 Sources of Vitamin B12

• Meat (beef, chicken)

• Fish

• Eggs

• Milk and dairy products

• Fortified cereals

💉 Treatment

• Oral supplements

• Vitamin B12 injections (for severe deficiency or absorption problems)

⚠️ High Vitamin B12

Usually due to supplements.
Rarely, it may be associated with liver disease or certain blood disorders.