Vitamin B12 has not been proved to improve energy levels.
It is unusual for individuals to suffer from a vitamin B12 deficiency because this vitamin is found naturally in a variety of foods, including fish, meat, dairy products and shellfish. Those most susceptible to a deficiency are vegans and vegetarians who eat only non-meat products, infants, the elderly and individuals diagnosed with pernicious anemia. Vitamin B12 can be administered in a variety of methods: intranasally, orally or intramuscularly. Research shows for treatment of pernicious anemia, liquid injectable vitamin B12 is most effective; however, for other health concerns, effectiveness of each method is dependent on dose, duration and the individual patient.
Megaloblastic Anemia Treatment
Folate deficiency, inborn metabolic disorders or vitamin B12 deficiency can cause megaloblastic anemia. The Mayo Clinic describes this anemia as red blood cells being larger than normal and the ratio of nucleus size to cell cytoplasm increases. Megaloblastic anemia caused by a vitamin B12 deficiency should be treated with vitamin B12 supplements.
Metabolism and Central Nervous System Impact
Vitamin B12 is a key component for healthy metabolism in a body. It plays a role in nutrition, digestion, absorption, elimination, respiration and temperature regulations. Maintenance of the central nervous system is also impacted by vitamin B12 levels.
Vitamin B12 Deficiency Treatment
Abnormal neurological and psychiatric symptoms including shaky movements, muscle weakness, vision problems, dementia and mood disturbances can be attributed to even just a slight vitamin B12 deficiency. Oral, either in liquid form or tablet, intranasal or intramuscular administration of vitamin B12 will treat the deficiency.
Pernicious Anemia Treatment
Malabsorption of vitamin B12 in the stomach causes pernicious anemia. Treatment for this anemia is lifelong and can include supplemental use of liquid, administered either as oral drops or intramuscularly with an injection, intranasal or tablet forms of vitamin B12. Intramuscular administration of vitamin B12 is indicated to be the most effective.
Unproven Additional Benefits
Some evidence indicates that vitamin B12 is beneficial for additional health issues; however, more research is necessary to confirm the results. Examples of these health issues are fatigue, breast cancer, cardiovascular disease, angioplasty, Bell's palsy and Alzheimer's disease.
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