Vitamin B12 Deficiency: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Introduction Vitamin B12 (cobalamin) is an essential nutrient that plays a vital role in red blood cell formation, maintaining a healthy nervous system, and aiding in DNA synthesis. A deficiency in this vitamin can lead to serious health problems if not diagnosed and treated promptly. Causes of Vitamin B12 Deficiency 1. Malabsorption: This can occur in some cases due to gastrointestinal disorders such as Crohn's disease or atrophic gastritis. 2. Pernicious anemia: This is an autoimmune condition that prevents the absorption of vitamin B12 due to a deficiency of intrinsic factor in the stomach. 3. Strict vegan diet: Vitamin B12 is primarily found in animal products, making vegans more susceptible to deficiency. 4. Aging: The body's ability to absorb the vitamin decreases with age. 5. Medications: Certain medications, such as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and metformin, can interfere with B12 absorption. Symptoms of Vitamin B12 Deficiency • Chronic fatigue and exhaustion • Pale skin • Shortness of breath • Numbness or tingling in the hands and feet • Loss of balance or difficulty walking • Memory and concentration problems • Mood swings or depression • Inflammation of the tongue or mouth ulcers Diagnosis of B12 Deficiency This is done through a simple blood test to measure vitamin B12 levels. Additional tests may include measuring methylmalonic acid and homocysteine ​​levels. Treatment Treatment depends on the cause and severity of the deficiency and may include: • Oral vitamin B12 supplements. • Regular intramuscular injections in severe cases or in cases of malabsorption. • Dietary modifications to include vitamin B12-rich foods such as liver, meat, eggs, and fish. Prevention For those at higher risk of deficiency, regular monitoring of B12 levels, a balanced diet, or supplementation when needed is recommended. Al-Mustaqbal University, the leading university in Iraq.