Why Can B12 Deficiency Occur Even If You Are Non-Vegetarian?

Many patients ask, "I am non-vegetarian, so how can I have B12 deficiency?"

B12 deficiency depends not only on what you eat but also on how well your body absorbs it.

Understand the causes: 1. Weak digestive system: Conditions like acidity, gas, use of antacid medicines, and other digestive problems can prevent proper absorption of B12.

2. Food not properly absorbed: Sometimes the body lacks a component called intrinsic factor, which is essential for B12 absorption. Without it, even if you get B12, it cannot be used effectively.

3. Continuous stress and lack of sleep: The body's demand increases but supply decreases.

4. Infections or intestinal disorders: Infections like H. pylori, IBS, and IBD cause digestive disturbances leading to B12 deficiency.

5. Age and medicines: With increasing age or long-term use of certain medicines (such as metformin or acidity medicines), B12 levels can drop.

In short, being non-vegetarian does not guarantee you will not have B12 deficiency.

If you have symptoms, consult specialists for testing and treatment.

Dr Ravindra L Kulkarni Just For Hearts