NERVOUS DISORDER (VITAMIN B-12 DEFICIENCY)
· Vitamin B-12 belongs to the B-complex group of vitamins.
· It is stored in the liver and present in small amounts in every tissue.
· It has a role to play in the functions of almost all organs, and is mainly required for DNA production, a healthy nervous system, and for formation of red blood cells.
SYMPTOMS OF DEFICIENCY
· The hormonal changes due to its deficiency causes muscle weakness, fatigue, unsteady walking, depression, moodiness and memory disorders.
· Its deficiency increases levels of an amino acid called homocysteine that increases blood stickiness.
· These symptoms may not show up immediately because of reserves in the body.
· Problems surface when levels fall below 250 picograms per millimeter of blood.
OCCURANCE OF DEFICIENCY
· Vitamin B-12 deficiency can also occur in those
o who are diabetics taking drugs, since the drugs interfere with absorption of the vitamin,
o who have had stomach surgery for ulcers or weight reduction,
o who are heavy drinkers,
o taking potassium supplements, or amino salicylic acid for inflammatory bowel disease,
o taking drugs for fits,
o who are suffering from H Pylori and Giardia infections.
DAILY REQUIREMENT
· Actually, we need very little vitamin B-12, i.e. only 2.4 micrograms every day.
· Non-vegetarian food provides enough of this, especially liver, red meat and fish.
· Eggs and chicken are also good sources but have lower content.
· For vegetarians, dairy products are the only source.
· Consumption of 3 cups each of milk and curds daily is required to get enough of vitamin B-12.
· Vitamin B-12 must be combined with a substance in the stomach, called an intrinsic factor, to be absorbed, which is lacking in people with pernicious anaemia.
· Food sources of vitamin B-12 need stomach acid for their absorption.
· So, if stomach acid is continuously suppressed by acid-lowering drugs, even non-vegetarians can develop B-12 deficiency.
· Stomach acid reduces with age and regular supplementation may be required in the old.
· Synthetic B-12, however, does not require stomach acid for absorption.
TREATMENT
· Most patients respond to oral medication that can be gradually reduced over time and then maintained after levels are normal.
· Injections are required only for those with severe deficiency or if suffering from pernicious anaemia.