Like most women, you've probably got a rigorous schedule. Your days are filled with work, family, friends, social engagements, and community obligations. All of that is reason enough to feel run down. But does it seem like no matter how much sleep you get, you're still exhausted?
It might not be your lifestyle. It might be a Vitamin B12 deficiency.
Why Women Need Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12 is one of those little things that make a big difference in a woman's life. Not only does it make your DNA, red blood cells, and nerves, but it also helps to regulate your nervous system.
Additionally, Vitamin B12 helps turn food into energy and fights infections, so you remain strong with the vigor to get through your day. It offers neurological benefits, assists you in maintaining proper eyesight, and helps your body properly digest food, all essential to feeling good and living a healthy life.
Common Signs of Vitamin B12 Deficiency in Women
If your body doesn't absorb enough Vitamin B12 every day, you may find yourself suffering from some or all of the following common signs of a Vitamin B12 deficiency:
- Digestive issues
- Fatigue and/or weakness
- Loss of senses (taste, smell, etc.)
- Memory loss
- Shortness of breath
Women Who Are At-Risk for Vitamin B12 Deficiency
Women who are most at risk include:
- Acid reflux sufferers. Stomach acid is required to break down Vitamin B12. Acid reflux meds cut down on that acid, making it difficult for your body to absorb necessary nutrients.
- Menopausal and post-menopausal women. The imbalance of hormones that occurs during and after menopause can lead to a Vitamin B12 deficiency in many women.
- Vegans/vegetarians. Without animal-based food products, vegans and vegetarians have no natural source of Vitamin B12.
- Women over 50. The aging body has a harder time breaking down and absorbing Vitamin B12.
- Women with small intestine conditions. The small intestine, when healthy, helps the body absorb Vitamin B12 nutrients. Diseases such as Crohn's or celiac disease shut down the small intestine's role in this process.
- Women with immune system disorders. Like small intestine conditions, immune system disorders make it difficult for your body to absorb Vitamin B12.
- Women who had weight loss surgery. If your weight loss surgery eliminated part of your stomach or small intestine, then you have also lost a portion of your body that is essential to providing you with the Vitamin B12 nutrients it needs to thrive.
Get Back to Your Dynamic Life
If you're suffering from the symptoms described here, it's important to seek a diagnosis and treatment for this condition. Our experienced Vitamin B12 deficiency doctors at Balance Hormone Center can help.
Whether you have symptoms or Vitamin B12 deficiency now or would like to take steps to avoid deficiency altogether, reach out. Contact our Gilbert, Arizona team today at 480-525-7747. If you prefer, you can contact us online or schedule your appointment here.