This subject along with many others are quite common.
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E many different types of vitamin B.
Symptoms Of Vitamin B12 Or Folate Deficiency
Eficiency anaemia occurs when a lack of vitamin B12 or folate causes the body to produce abnormally large red blood cells that cannot function properly. There are several different types of anaemia and each one has a different cause.
A deficiency in either of these vitamins can cause a wide range of problems, including: extreme tiredness
a lack of energy
pins and needles (paraesthesia)
a sore and red tongue
mouth ulcers
muscle weakness
disturbed vision
psychological problems, which may include depression and confusion
problems with memory, understanding and judgement Some of these problems can also happen if you have a deficiency in vitamin B12 or folate but do not have anaemia.
When To See A Gp
These treatments may be needed for the rest of your life. Folic acid tablets are used to restore folate levels.
These usually need to be taken for 4 months. In some cases, improving your diet can help treat the condition and prevent it coming back. The best sources of folate include green vegetables, such as broccoli, brussels sprouts and peas.
Potential complications can include: problems with the nervous system
temporary infertility
heart conditions
pregnancy complications and birth defects Adults with severe anaemia are also at risk of developing heart failure. Community content from HealthUnlocked.
Foods Rich In Folic Acid And Vitamin B12
Diarrhoea, constipation
No appetite
Fatigue / tiredness
Foods rich in folic acid
Meat Legumes Starches Fruit and vegetables Liver (best source0 Dried beans Whole grain breads Spinach Chicken giblets Lentils Wheat flour Beetroot Kidney Split peas (Dahls) Potato Brussel Sprouts Egg yolk Soya Products Sweet potato Broccoli Almonds Cabbage Nuts Asparagus Banana Oranges Peaches
Important Guidelines
Include more foods that are high in Folic Acid in the diet
Fruit and vegetables should be eaten raw whenever possible as cooking destroys Folic Acid
Avoid alcohol in the diet as it leads to Folic Acid deficiency
Pregnant women have higher requirements for Folic Acid and should take Folic Acid supplements as advised by the doctor/dietician/nurse.
Increase the use of wheat flour and soya flour in baking and food preparation
Causes of vitamin B12 Deficiency
Eating a diet that contains no meat or animal products
Poor absorption due to certain disease conditions or surgery
Surgery to the stomach or intestine
Oral contraceptives (the “pill”)
Smoking
Symptoms of Vitamin B12 Deficiency
Similar symptoms to that of Folic Acid deficiency (see above) including:
Nerve damage
Numbness in hands and feet
Tingling (pins and needles) in hands and feet
Weakness in legs
Pale skin
Poor memory
Poor muscle coordination
Foods rich in Vitamin B12
Meat: liver best source; beef/mutton; chicken; pork/ham; fish, whole egg
Dairy products: milk; cheese; yoghurt; maas
Important Guidelines
Include more foods high in Vitamin B12 in the diet
Liver should be included more often in the diet as it is an excellent source of Vitamin B12, folic acid, iron and other important nutrients
Strict vegetarians, who do not have any dairy products, may require Vitamin B12 supplements
Complied by the KwaZulu-Natal Dietitians : Department of Health.