If you are wondering what causes vitamin B12 deficiency, keep reading to get an in-depth idea.
Pernicious Anaemia
Vitamin B12 needs to be absorbed by the body. For this, it binds with an intrinsic factor protein in the stomach. Typically, the cells in the stomach lining produce this protein. However, in conditions with pernicious anaemia, the body's immune system erroneously attacks these cells. This prevents the intrinsic factors from getting absorbed and bind with vitamin B12.
It is an autoimmune condition that affects individuals over 50 years old. Pernicious anaemia is a common disease in women.
In certain cases, genetic conditions can be a reason for the disease. It affects patients with autoimmune conditions like Addison's disease and Hashimoto's thyroiditis.
Disorders in Stomach and Intestines
Individuals with stomach and intestinal problems are prone to suffer from vitamin B12 deficiency. In certain cases, surgeries can also create the risk of vitamin B12 deficiency.
Intestinal problems: The conditions where the lining of the digestive tract is inflamed can generate vitamin B12 deficiency risks. Conditions like celiac disease, Crohn's disease, chronic tropical sprue, etc., are some conditions that may lead to this deficiency.
Stomach conditions: Individuals suffering from atrophic gastritis have a higher risk of developing vitamin B12 deficiency. This disease causes thinning of the stomach lining and raises the risk of Helicobacter pylori bacterial infections.
Surgery: In certain conditions, the surgical procedures conducted to remove part or all of the intestine or stomach can prevent sufficient absorption of vitamin B12.
Inadequate Dietary Intake
Diet plays a vital role in managing the nutritional requirements of humans. The lack of vitamin B12-rich food can lead to deficiency.
Some of the issues caused by this deficiency are discussed next. Keep reading