Women at high risk for B12 deficiency

Extended use of oral contraceptives puts women at a greater risk, says study


If you suffer from chronic fatigue, constipation, memory loss, feel nervous, get easily irritated, have frequent migraines and are anaemic, probably you are suffering from Vitamin B12 deficiency. This vitamin is important for the formation of red blood cells, synthesis of DNA molecules, repairing blood cells, maintenance of nervous system and growth.


The deficiency is caused by an inability of the body to absorb vitamin B12 or a lack of Vit B12 in the diet.

Further, women are at a higher risk of acquiring it at a younger age than men. A recent survey by Metropolis Healthcare Ltd revealed that over a period of one year, men with abnormal Vitamin B12 levels were aged above 45 years while women were aged between 16-45 years.

The study conducted on 76,087 patients from 2009-10, revealed that the ratio of Vitamin B12 deficiency in men and women is 1:2. Doctors attribute it to Malabsorption syndrome, vegetarian diets, frequent use of oral contraceptives pills, smoking and alcohol. “Despite the inclusion of Vitamin B12 in diet, oral contraceptives increase hormone levels which hamper the absorption. Alcohol and smoking hampers absorption too. It can cause anaemia, neurological disorders and heart ailments,” said Dr. Nisha Ahmed, chief of lab services, Metropolis.

How pills affect

Women on pills for a long time, with these symptoms are also likely to develop atherosclerosis — a silent killer that has no symptoms or warning signs until a stroke happens.

Experts claim that people with vegetarian diets are more inclined to B12 deficiency than non-vegetarians.

Why it’s serious

Vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to decreased production of red blood cells which are needed for delivery of oxygen to the cells and tissues.

Symptoms

• Pale skin

• Feel weak, tired, lightheaded

• Diarrhoea or constipation

• Feel sick to your stomach, weight loss

• Sore, red tongue or bleeding gums

Treatment

Vitamin B12 deficiency can usually be treated successfully especially if patients are given vitamin B12 injections and oral pills.