Anemia Caused by Vitamin B12 Deficiency

For more than six years, Mohsen Motamedian has served as CEO of Total NutriCare in Irvine, California. In this role, Max Motamedian employs a holistic nutritionist who performs blood chemistry testing to determine if clients have nutritional imbalances that may contribute to various disease processes. One condition that Mohsen Motamedian’s company detects and treats with diet and nutritional supplements is vitamin B12 deficiency anemia.

Anemia is a condition in which a person does not have an adequate amount of healthy red blood cells. These cells are needed to deliver oxygen to the body’s tissues. Anemia can stem from a number of causes, such as a bleeding disorder or a lack of iron in the diet. Low levels of vitamin B12 in the body can also be to blame for the condition, which can cause fatigue, pale skin, shortness of breath, and a swollen tongue. If the B12 deficiency progresses for too long without treatment, the patient can develop serious nerve damage in addition to anemia.

People who eat plenty of meat, eggs, and dairy products typically get enough B12 in their diets. Therefore, vegans are at risk of vitamin B12 deficiency anemia if they do not take supplements. Some people develop the condition despite getting enough dietary B12 because their bodies do not absorb the vitamin properly. Several lifestyle factors can inhibit B12 absorption, including prolonged, excessive alcohol use and the frequent use of antacids or heartburn medications. Health conditions or surgeries affecting the intestinal tract can also prevent efficient absorption of this vitamin. These can include celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, and bariatric surgeries.