Most people are very surprised to learn that over half of the population in the United States is currently experiencing vitamin b12 deficiency symptoms. The reality is that the vast majority of people that are experiencing symptoms have absolutely no idea that the problem is a B12 deficiency. Instead, their symptoms are mistaken for another aliment or disregarded all together as being caused by aging. Due to this growing epidemic, it is very important that you learn to recognize the early signs of a B12 deficiency. Why is this so important? Read on to find out!
The biggest reason why it is important to diagnose a b12 deficiency early and begin treatment is that if b12 deficiency symptoms are ignored and go untreated for an extended period of time, they can cause neurological issues that are irreversible. Although early symptoms of B12 deficiency can be quite mild and include things like fatigue, stomach upset and depression, as the condition progresses the symptoms can get more severe and begin to mimic Alzheimer’s. If treatment begins early enough, all of the symptoms are typically reversible.
Another key reason that you want to catch a B12 deficiency early is that recent research has linked even slightly low levels of B12 with the development of chronic disease such as heart disease. The reason for this is that as your B12 levels reach the low end of the normal range, your homocysteine levels begin to rise. Homeocysteine is a toxic amino acid that research has proven increases your chance of developing disease. So, recognizing the problem early is critical.
Because many doctors fail to recognize and diagnose a B12 deficiency, your attention to the matter is very important. The basic B12 serum test that is commonly used to test B12 levels is not all that accurate so you may want to speak with your doctor about this fact as well.
A lot of people are in the habit of taking multivitamins daily. These people report fewer incidents of colds and other health problems as well as more energy and feeling better in general. While vitamins most likely won’t cure or prevent serious illnesses, they do have an impact on overall health.
Most people first begin taking vitamins in the hopes of being healthier. Indeed vitamins such as Vitamin C do reduce the possibilities of catching a cold because they help build up the body’s natural defenses. It’s also possible to get this vitamin from dietary sources but many people don’t consume enough to make an impact. Vitamin D is another vitamin that many people are lacking. In particular, if you live in a climate where you don’t get at least fifteen minutes of sun every day, you should probably look into supplementing with Vitamin D. Calcium is another vitamin found in many multivitamins and it is very important for women in particular to help strengthen the bones and prevent osteoporosis.
Another benefit of taking multivitamins is improved appearance. The Vitamins for Hair Loss Guide is a great resource for learning more about how vitamins can help with hair. For those suffering from thinning hair or beginning to lose their hair, this is a great, affordable way to help strengthen the hair and increase circulation in the scalp which leads to improved growth. It not only helps the hairs on your head but can improve sparse eyebrows and eyelashes as well. Vitamin E is one great option for the hair. There are numerous studies on the biotin hair growth connection which have led many to recommend Vitamin B7 in particular for those losing their hair.
If you eat a very well-rounded diet, you may already be getting everything you need from your food. Indeed getting vitamins this way is the preferred method of delivery from a health standpoint. But the reality is that many people simply can’t consume enough of each vitamin on a daily basis despite their best efforts. That’s why many turn to multivitamins to help fill in the gaps. It is important to consult with a doctor first to address any potential concerns depending on your individual health as well as possible medication conflicts, and if you are pregnant or breastfeeding you need to take a vitamin that is specifically formulated to provide exactly what you need and exclude the vitamins that can be dangerous during this time.