Vitamin Deficiency Anemia

 

Vitamin deficiency anemia is a lack of healthy red blood cells caused by lower than usual amounts of vitamin B-12 and folate.

Vitamin Deficiency Anemia Overview:

• Caused by low levels of vitamin B-12 and folate, resulting in the production of ineffective red blood cells.

• Symptoms include fatigue, shortness of breath, and dizziness.

Causes of Vitamin B-12 Deficiency:

• Inadequate dietary intake, especially in individuals not consuming meat, eggs, or milk.

• Pernicious anemia caused by the immune system attacking stomach cells producing intrinsic factor.

• Gastric surgeries or intestinal problems affecting B-12 absorption.

Dietary Sources of Vitamin B-12:

• Mainly found in meat, eggs, and milk.

• Some fortified foods like breakfast cereals and nutritional yeast products can provide B-12.

Vitamin B-12 Supplements:

• Pill or injection supplements can correct deficiencies.

Development of Anemia:

• Gradual development over months to years.

• Symptoms start subtly but worsen with increasing deficiency.

Folate (Vitamin B-9) Deficiency:

• Found in dark green leafy vegetables and liver.

• Causes include inadequate intake or absorption issues due to diseases, surgeries, alcohol consumption, or certain medications.

Folate Demand in Special Cases:

• Increased demand in pregnant and breastfeeding women.

• Individuals undergoing kidney disease dialysis.

Birth Defects and Folate Deficiency:

• Lack of folate during pregnancy can lead to birth defects.

• Countries adding folate to staple foods have reduced the prevalence of folate deficiency.

Prevention through Food Fortification:

• Routine addition of folate to products like bread, cereals, and pasta in some countries.

Conclusion:

• Vitamin deficiency anemia prevention and correction involve addressing dietary deficiencies and using supplements when necessary.

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