Vitamin B12 is a water-soluble vitamin that your body needs to make red blood cells and produce other proteins. It is also important for a healthy nervous system and in the production of DNA and RNA, the body’s genetic material. It is mainly found in animal products (eggs, meat, dairy, and fish). If you don’t get enough of it in your diet, you can become deficient.

Deficiency of this vitamin is common and can happen to people at any age. However, older adults are more likely to have this condition than other age groups. It can occur if you don’t absorb vitamin b12 well from food, or if you have a digestive disease. It can also happen to people who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

It is a water-soluble vitamin that your system can’t store, so it must be taken in small amounts. It is absorbed through the stomach and into the intestines. You can get it from food, dietary supplements, or prescription drugs. It is essential for the growth and development of babies during pregnancy.

Your doctor can give you a test for vitamin B12 deficiency. This test can help your doctor determine if you need to take a vitamin supplement. You can also get this vitamin from foods that have been fortified with it.

Symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency can include dry skin, hair loss, and brittle nails. It can also cause mouth sores and shortness of breath. It can lead to anemia, which is a condition where the red blood cells are not made correctly. It can also make it harder to fight infections.

Treatment for vitamin B12 deficiency varies depending on the type of deficiency and what is causing it. For example, if your body is unable to absorb vitamin B12 from food, you may need to take a special vitamin pill or eat foods that are fortified with it. If you are taking medications, such as certain antibiotics or antacids, your doctor may recommend that you take a vitamin supplement to keep your vitamin B12 levels at normal levels.

Other signs and symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency can be low energy, fatigue, mood swings, depression, memory problems, trouble learning and concentration, and headaches. The vitamin also helps to control blood levels of the amino acid homocysteine, which is associated with heart disease. In addition, it can help you make protein-containing amino acids, including glycine and glutamic acid.

You can prevent or treat vitamin B12 deficiency with a high-quality diet and a good vitamin supplement. You should also avoid foods that may aggravate your condition, such as alcohol, smoking, and caffeine.

What is the best way to get more vitamin B12?
Increasing your intake of vitamin B12-fortified foods or taking a daily vitamin supplement is the most effective way to ensure that you’re getting enough of this important vitamin. This can be a simple process that you can do at home.

Some medications can interfere with your body’s ability to absorb vitamin B12. Some of these include proton pump inhibitors and histamine 2-receptor antagonists. These types of drugs can inhibit your body’s ability to digest vitamin B12 in the stomach and intestines, which can lead to a vitamin B12 deficiency.