B12 Deficiency and Injections

B12 is an essential vitamin that is crucial in many metabolic and hormonal functions.

Why do I need vitamin B12?

B12 is involved in producing red blood cells, maintaining a healthy nervous system, and converting food to energy. It also helps to regulate the immune system and mood, and control levels of the amino acid homocysteine, elevated levels of which are associated with heart disease.

Most people who eat meat, fish, eggs and dairy products get enough B12. Vegans are advised to eat fortified food and take supplements.

Who needs a B12 injection?

People with signs of B12 deficiency. These include:

• Fatigue
• Lethargy
• Depression
• Irritability
• Headache
• Heart palpitations
• Vision changes
• Constipation
• Swollen tongue and mouth ulcers

One of the main causes is the autoimmune condition pernicious anaemia. Other causes are conditions affecting the stomach or small intestine, such as Crohn’s disease, operations such as gastrectomies (which involve removal of part of the stomach), and certain medications.

Vegetarians and vegans

Vitamin B12 is mainly in fish, meat and dairy, so people who do not consume these foods are at risk of B12 deficiency.

Older adults. People over the age of 65 are likely to need more B12 as they are more at risk of being affected by conditions that are linked to a decrease in stomach acid.

What are the benefits of B12 injections?

• Helps to treat anemia
• Helps lower levels of fatigue
• Improves metabolism
• Helps prevent or treat Diabetic Neuropathy
• Helps with fetal development during pregnancy
• Protects the heart
• May reduce depression