Vitamin B12 is an essential vitamin. This means that the body requires vitamin B12 to work properly. Vitamin B12 can be found in foods such as meat, fish, and dairy products. It can also be made in a laboratory. It is often taken in combination with other B vitamins.

For those that are over the age of 50 or taking a medication that reduces stomach acid, the ability to absorb vitamin B12 declines. You can safely supplement with vitamin B12 and there are many products on the market. Look for a product that contains 1 mg of vitamin b12 per dose.

For more information on what product would work best for you, visit your local health food store or pharmacy. 

Pernicious anemia is a type of vitamin B12 deficiency. While vitamin B12 deficiency is relatively common, affecting about one percent of the population as we age, certain groups are at higher risk, including those with autoimmune diseases like type 1 diabetes or those who have had surgery on their intestines, particularly the stomach or ileum. The symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency can be mild, including fatigue, making it difficult to diagnose early on. In more severe cases, patients may experience peripheral neuropathy, affecting the feet and lower legs, as well as balance and strength. The condition can also cause optic atrophy and, in severe cases, dementia-like symptoms.

Fortunately, vitamin B12 deficiency is typically diagnosed earlier on in today's world, thanks to better awareness and testing methods. Diagnosis involves measuring vitamin B12 levels in the blood and looking for certain symptoms, including macrocytosis, an increase in red blood cell size, which is often the first clue.

Once diagnosed, vitamin B12 supplementation is necessary. In the past, patients were often given regular vitamin B12 injections, but this is not always necessary. Oral supplements can often be just as effective, even in patients with a defective absorptive mechanism. After a short course of injections, patients can often switch to oral supplements and be monitored over time to ensure their vitamin B12 levels remain in the safe range.

If you are concerned about vitamin B12 deficiency, it's important to discuss your symptoms with your primary care practitioner.