So people at greatest risk for deficiency include those with low stomach acid (e.g., older adults and people on proton pump inhibitors or antacids) or low IF production (known as pernicious anemia), people on medications that interfere with B12 absorption (such as metformin), people who have had gastric surgery, those with GI conditions that impair nutrient absorption (like celiac or Crohn's disease), and people on vegan and vegetarian diets
Symptoms of B12 deficiency include: Low energy and fatigue Digestive problems Depression and moodiness Insomnia Brain fog and memory loss Anemia Reduced immune system function Tingling or numbness in the extremities Swollen tongue Loss of vision or hearing Jaundice Kidney disease Pale skin Poor circulation in the extremities If you are over age 50 and are experiencing one or more of the above symptoms, boosting your intake of B12 cannot hurt, and it may provide a safe and inexpensive solution while preventing a wrong diagnosis
With more people seeking wellness treatments that enhance immunity, immune-boosting B12 treatment has gained popularity
Thyroid (calcitonin) if medullary thyroid carcinoma risk factors are present
[10] [11] It is important to check folate status alongside B12, but folate supplementation should not be started before excluding B12 deficiency, as this may precipitate neurological complications