Vitamin B12 for women: why is it needed

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Vitamin B12 for women: why is it needed

I. Fundamentals of vitamin B12

A. What is vitamin B12?

Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is a water -soluble vitamin that plays a key role in many vital functions of the body. Unlike many other vitamins, B12 contains metal – cobalt – in its structure, hence the name “cobalamin”. It is not produced by the body independently, so it must come with food or in the form of additives.

B. Shifam shifamin B12

There are various forms of vitamin B12, the most common of which:

  1. Cyanocobalamin: This is a synthetic form, often used in additions and enriched products. It is stable and well absorbed, but the body must convert it into active forms.

  2. Hydroxycobalamine: This is a natural form of vitamin B12, present in food products. It is better held in the body than cyanocobalamin, and is often used to treat B12 deficiency.

  3. Methylcobalamin: This is an active form of vitamin B12, which is directly involved in metabolic processes. It is especially important for the nervous system and brain.

  4. Adenosylcobalamin: Another active form necessary for mitochondrial function and energy metabolism.

The choice of a specific form depends on the individual needs and recommendations of the doctor.

C. The role of vitamin B12 in the body

Vitamin B12 performs many important functions, including:

  1. DNA synthesis: B12 is necessary for the formation of DNA, genetic material contained in all cells. This is especially important for rapidly dividing cells, such as blood cells.

  2. The formation of red blood cells (red blood cells): B12 is involved in the production of red blood cells that transfer oxygen throughout the body. B12 deficiency can lead to megaloblastic anemia, in which red blood cells become abnormally large and incapable of effectively tolerate oxygen.

  3. The function of the nervous system: B12 supports the health of nerve cells, participating in the formation of the myelin shell that surrounds and protects the nerve fibers. B12 deficiency can lead to neurological problems, such as numbness, tingling, memory loss and depression.

  4. Homocysteine ​​metabolism: B12 helps to turn homocysteine, amino acid, into other beneficial substances. A high level of homocysteine ​​is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases.

  5. Energy exchange: B12 is involved in the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats and proteins, providing the body with energy.

II. Vitamin B12 value for women

A. General needs of women in vitamin B12

The recommended daily dose (RSD) of vitamin B12 for adults is 2.4 micrograms (mcg). However, needs may vary depending on age, state of health and other factors. Pregnant and lactating women need higher doses.

B. Special needs of women in different periods of life

  1. Reproductive age: Women of reproductive age need sufficient B12 to maintain a healthy pregnancy and the development of the fetus. B12 deficiency during pregnancy can lead to serious problems, such as defects in the nervous tube, low birth weight and premature birth.

  2. Pregnancy: During pregnancy, the need for B12 increases to 2.6 mcg per day. B12 is necessary for the development of the nervous system of the fetus and the formation of red blood cells.

  3. Breast-feeding: Nursing women need 2.8 μg B12 per day. B12 is transmitted through breast milk to the baby, so it is important to ensure sufficient consumption of vitamin for the health of both the mother and the baby.

  4. Menopause: During the period of menopause, women may experience changes in digestion and absorption of nutrients, including B12. In addition, hormonal changes can affect the nervous system, so sufficient B12 consumption is especially important for maintaining cognitive functions and moods.

C. The influence of vitamin B12 on female health

  1. Fertility: B12 plays a role in fertility in both women and men. It is necessary for the normal ripening of eggs and maintaining a healthy endometrium (uterine mucosa).

  2. Bone health: Some studies show that B12 can play a role in maintaining bone health and reducing the risk of osteoporosis, especially in women in postmenopausa.

  3. Cardiovascular health: B12 helps to reduce homocysteine ​​levels, amino acids associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases.

  4. Mental health: B12 is necessary for the normal function of the nervous system and can help improve mood and cognitive functions. B12 deficiency is associated with depression, anxiety and other mental disorders.

  5. Energy and metabolism: B12 is involved in the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats and proteins, providing the body with energy. B12 deficiency can lead to fatigue and weakness.

III. Causes of vitamin B12 deficiency in women

A. Dietary factors

  1. Vegetarianism and veganism: B12 is mainly contained in animal products, so vegetarians and vegans are at risk of B12 deficiency.

  2. Insufficient consumption of animal products: Even women who use animal products may not receive enough B12 if their diet is limited.

B. Problems with assimilation

  1. Age changes: With age, the production of gastric juice necessary for the assimilation of B12 may decrease.

  2. Atrophic gastritis: This is a condition in which the mucous membrane of the stomach is thinner, which leads to a decrease in the production of gastric juice and internal factor (protein necessary for the absorption of B12).

  3. Personic anemia: Autoimmune disease in which the body produces antibodies to the inner factor, which prevents the assimilation of B12.

  4. Operations on the stomach or intestines: Surgical removal of part of the stomach or intestines can disrupt the production of the internal factor and the assimilation of B12.

  5. Intestinal diseases: Some diseases of the intestine, such as the disease of the crown and ulcerative colitis, can prevent the assimilation of B12.

  6. Medication: Some drugs, such as metformin (used to treat diabetes) and proton pump inhibitors (are used to treat heartburn), can reduce B12 assimilation.

C. Other risk factors

  1. Alcohol abuse: Alcohol can violate the assimilation of B12.

  2. Smoking: Smoking can also reduce B12 assimilation.

  3. Genetic predisposition: Some genetic factors can affect the assimilation of B12.

IV. Symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency

Symptoms of B12 deficiency can be varied and often develop gradually, which complicates the diagnosis.

A. Physical symptoms

  1. Fatigue and weakness: One of the most common symptoms of B12 deficiency.

  2. Dyspnea: The lack of oxygen tolerated by red blood cells can lead to shortness of breath.

  3. Pallor of the skin: A decrease in the number of red blood cells can cause pallor of the skin.

  4. Dizziness: B12 deficiency can affect the function of the nervous system and cause dizziness.

  5. Headaches: Some people with a deficiency of B12 experience headaches.

  6. Loss of appetite: B12 deficiency can reduce appetite.

  7. Digestive problems: Such as constipation or diarrhea.

  8. Glossitis (inflammation of the tongue): The language can become red, swollen and painful.

  9. Taries in the mouth: B12 deficiency can contribute to the formation of ulcers in the mouth.

B. Neurological symptoms

  1. Numbness and tingling in the arms and legs: This is one of the most characteristic neurological symptoms of B12 deficiency.

  2. Loss of a sense of balance: B12 deficiency can affect the function of the nervous system that controls equilibrium.

  3. Difficult walking: B12 deficiency can cause weakness in the legs and difficult to walk.

  4. Problems with memory and concentration: B12 deficiency can affect cognitive functions.

  5. Irritability: B12 deficiency can affect mood and cause irritability.

  6. Depression: B12 deficiency is associated with an increased risk of depression.

  7. Dementia: In severe cases, B12 deficiency can lead to dementia.

V. Diagnosis of vitamin B12 deficiency

A. Blood test

  1. General blood test (UAC): The UAC can show the presence of megaloblastic anemia, characteristic of B12 deficiency.

  2. Vitamin B12 level in blood serum: This is the most common test for determining the level of B12. However, it is not always a reliable indicator, since it may not reflect the level of B12 in cells.

  3. The level of methylmalonic acid (MMA) in the blood or urine: MMA is a metabolic product, the level of which increases with a deficiency of B12. This test is considered more accurate than measuring the B12 level in blood serum.

  4. The level of homocysteine ​​in the blood: The level of homocysteine ​​also increases with B12 deficiency.

  5. Analysis for antibodies to the internal factor: This test is used to diagnose pernicious anemia.

B. Other tests

  1. Shilling test: This test, although obsolete, can be used to determine the cause of B12 deficiency (for example, insufficient consumption, impaired assimilation).

VI. Treatment of vitamin B12 deficiency

A. Methods of treatment

  1. Vitamin B12 injections: B12 injections are the most effective way to treat deficiency, especially in cases where vitamin absorption is impaired. Typically prescribed hydroxycobalamin or cyanocobalamin injections.

  2. Vitamin B12 tablets: B12 tablets can be effective for the treatment of deficiency caused by insufficient consumption of vitamin C. High doses of B12 (1000-2000 mcg per day) can overcome problems with the assimilation in some people.

  3. Sublingval tablets of vitamin B12: Sublingval tablets dissolve under the tongue and absorbed directly into the blood, which can be useful for people with the problems of absorption.

  4. Nazal spray of vitamin B12: The nasal spray B12 can also be used to treat deficiency.

B. Dosage and duration of treatment

The dosage and duration of treatment depend on the degree of deficiency of B12 and the causes of its occurrence. The doctor will determine the optimal treatment plan for each patient. Typically, treatment begins with B12 injections for rapid replenishment of vitamin reserves, and then switch to supporting therapy in the form of tablets or injections.

C. Monitoring of treatment

It is important to regularly monitor the B12 level in the blood and the level of MMA in order to verify the effectiveness of treatment and adjust the dosage if necessary.

VII. Sources of vitamin B12

A. Food sources

  1. Animal products:

    • Meat (especially liver, kidneys and beef)
    • Fish (especially salmon, tuna and sardines)
    • Eggs
    • Dairy products (milk, cheese, yogurt)

  2. Enriched products:

    • Enriched cereals for breakfast
    • Enriched vegetable milk (soy, almond, oatmeal)
    • Enriched products from yeast

B. Vitamin B12 supplements

  1. Types of additives: Cyanocobalamine, hydroxicobalamine, methylkobalamine and adenosilkobalamine.

  2. Dosage: The dosage of additives varies depending on individual needs. It is recommended to consult a doctor or nutritionist to determine the optimal dose.

  3. How to choose an additive: Choose additives from reliable manufacturers that have undergone independent testing. Pay attention to the form B12 and the dosage.

VIII. Prevention of vitamin B12 deficiency in women

A. A balanced diet

Include products rich in vitamin B12 in your diet, such as meat, fish, eggs and dairy products.

B. enriched products for vegetarians and vegans

It is important for vegetarians and vegans to use enriched products, such as enriched breakfast cereals, vegetable milk and yeast products.

C. Reception of vitamin B12 additives

Vegetarians, vegans and people with a risk of deficiency B12 can be recommended to receive additives B12.

D. Regular medical examinations

Pass medical examinations regularly and take blood tests to control the B12 level and detect a deficiency in the early stages.

E. Consultation with a doctor or nutritionist

Consult a doctor or nutritionist to get individual recommendations for nutrition and reception.

IX. Vitamin B12 and special health states in women

A. Syndrome of polycystic ovary (PCKA)

Some studies show that B12 can play a role in improving metabolic parameters in women with PCOS.

B. Endometriosis

Although the studies are limited, some data indicate that B12 can have anti -inflammatory properties that can be useful for women with endometriosis.

C. Autoimmune diseases

People with autoimmune diseases, such as pernicious anemia, are at increased risk of B12 deficiency and should be under the supervision of a doctor.

D. Chronic fatigue

B12 deficiency can contribute to chronic fatigue, so it is important to exclude B12 deficiency in women with chronic fatigue.

X. Myths and errors about vitamin B12

A. Myth: B12 deficiency is rare.

Reality: B12 deficiency is quite common, especially in older people, vegetarians, vegan and people with assimilation problems.

B. Myth: If I eat meat, I cannot have a B12 deficiency.

Reality: even if you eat meat, you can still have a deficiency of B12 if you have problems with assimilation or if you do not receive enough B12 from your diet.

C. Myth: B12 can be obtained from plant sources.

Reality: B12 is mainly contained in animal products. Some plant products can be enriched by B12, but this is not a reliable source of vitamin.

D. Myth: Reception B12 in large doses is absolutely safe.

Reality: although B12 is considered a safe vitamin, taking large doses can cause side effects in some people. Always consult your doctor before taking additives.

XI. Conclusion (do not include, as indicated in the instructions)

XII. Recommendations (do not include, as indicated in the instructions)

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