Vitamin B12 and folate deficiency anemia is a condition when the body lacks healthy red blood cells due to a lack of vitamin B12 and folate. This condition causes the general symptoms of anemia, but can also be accompanied by other symptoms caused by a deficiency of these two vitamins.
Vitamin B12 and folate (vitamin B9) have many important roles for the body. One of its functions is to produce and form red blood cells, which play a role in transporting oxygen throughout the body.
In vitamin B12 and folate deficiency anemia, the body lacks these two vitamins so that the formation of red blood cells is disrupted. As a result, red blood cells grow abnormally to a very large size. This condition is also known as megaloblastic anemia.
Although large, abnormal red blood cells cannot carry oxygen optimally. Without a supply of oxygen-rich red blood cells, the body's organs and tissues cannot function properly. This condition can cause various health problems.
Causes and Symptoms of Vitamin B12 and Folate Deficiency Anemia
The causes of vitamin 12 and folate deficiency anemia are very diverse. A person can develop B12 and folate deficiency anemia if:
- Less consumption of foods that contain vitamin B12 and folate
- Have conditions that inhibit the absorption of vitamin B12 and folate
- Taking certain drugs
- Are pregnant, so the body needs more vitamins
Symptoms of vitamin B12 and folate deficiency anemia appear slowly. Some complaints that can occur in the form of pale skin, palpitations, ringing in the ears, and loss of appetite.
The above complaints can also be accompanied by other symptoms caused by vitamin B12 deficiency and folate deficiency.
How to Treat and Prevent Vitamin B12 and Folate Deficiency Anemia
Vitamin B12 and folate deficiency anemia is generally easy to treat. Treatment aims to restore vitamin B12 and folate levels in the body to normal, one of which is by increasing the intake of foods containing these two vitamins.
Vitamin B12 deficiency anemia can be prevented by eating foods rich in vitamin B12 and folate, not smoking, and not consuming alcoholic beverages in excess.
