Women are susceptible to vitamin B12 deficiency due to various factors. During pregnancy, the demand for vitamin B12 increases to support the development of the fetal nervous system. Conditions such as Celiac disease, a history of gastric surgery, reduced stomach acid secretion in older adults, or prolonged use of acid-reducing medications can diminish the body's ability to absorb vitamin B12. Irritable bowel syndrome can indirectly affect this status through digestive disorders and restrictive diets. Below are some warning signs:

Unexplained fatigue

Unexplained fatigue is an early indicator of vitamin B12 deficiency in women. This vitamin is essential for cellular energy production. When deficient, red blood cells transport oxygen less efficiently, leading to fatigue, weakness, and reduced endurance.

Declining mental health

Women with low vitamin B12 levels may struggle to manage stress, negatively impacting their physical well-being. A lack of this nutrient can also impair memory, cause difficulty concentrating, and increase the risk of dementia in old age.

Reduced bone density

Vitamin B12 deficiency is linked to reduced bone density and an increased risk of osteoporosis, especially in older adults and postmenopausal women. Vitamin B12 participates in homocysteine metabolism and bone cell activity; when deficient, the bone formation process can be affected. To prevent this, women should supplement vitamin B12 through foods such as meat, fish, eggs, and milk. Dietary supplements should only be used when prescribed, particularly for vegetarians, individuals with malabsorption disorders, or those at risk of deficiency.

Irregular menstrual cycles

While vitamin B12 deficiency does not directly cause endocrine disorders, it can indirectly affect the neuro-endocrine axis through its role in cell metabolism, the nervous system, and blood formation. When vitamin B12 is insufficient, the body is more prone to fatigue, stress, and metabolic disturbances, which can exacerbate irregular menstrual cycles in women of reproductive age.

Vitamin B12 is crucial for cell division and the development of the fetal nervous system. A deficiency during pregnancy can increase the risk of neural tube defects, developmental delays, and low birth weight, particularly when combined with folic acid deficiency.

Premature aging

Vitamin B12 plays a vital role in skin cell regeneration, helping maintain healthy skin. When deficient, skin can appear pale, show increased or decreased pigmentation, and experience accelerated premature aging due to oxidative stress and reduced production of new skin cells. Vitamin B12 is abundant in animal-derived foods. Vegetarians can supplement from fortified foods or B12 supplements as directed by a doctor.

Le Nguyen (According to WebMD, Times of India)