Vitamin B12 or folate deficiency anaemia treatment
Prevent, alleviate, or heal disease—naturally.
Meet our practitioners who specialize in natural Vitamin B12 or folate deficiency anaemia treatment
Recommended health tests for Vitamin B12 or folate deficiency anaemia
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
How it works
Consult with our health coaches who will learn about your symptoms, habits, and goals.
Take personalized home health tests to discover potential root causes of any symptoms or conditions you may have.
Review your results in just days with our functional medicine doctors, nurses, and dietitians who will help you achieve optimal health.
Learn about Vitamin B12 or folate deficiency anaemia
Vitamin B12 or folate deficiency anemia is a condition where your body lacks enough healthy red blood cells due to insufficient levels of vitamin B12 or folate. These vitamins are crucial for producing red blood cells, which carry oxygen throughout the body. It's a common and often overlooked condition that affects a significant portion of the population, especially older adults or those with dietary restrictions such as vegans.
Causes
The main causes of Vitamin B12 or folate deficiency anemia include poor diet, certain medical conditions that affect nutrient absorption (like Crohn’s disease or celiac disease), the use of particular medications, and in some cases, an autoimmune disorder. Vitamin B12 is naturally found in animal products, including fish, meat, poultry, eggs, and dairy products. Folate, on the other hand, is abundant in leafy green vegetables, fruits, nuts, and beans. A deficiency in either of these nutrients can lead to reduced red blood cell production.
Signs and symptoms
- Fatigue and weakness - Pale or jaundiced skin - Heart palpitations - Shortness of breath and dizziness - Nerve problems like tingling or numbness - Changes in mobility or balance - Mood disturbances, such as depression or irritability - Cognitive issues, including memory loss or confusion
Diagnosing Vitamin B12 or folate deficiency anaemia
Diagnosing this condition usually involves a detailed medical history, physical examination, and specific blood tests to measure the levels of vitamin B12, folate, and red blood cells. Your doctor may also recommend additional tests to determine the underlying cause of the deficiency, such as tests for autoimmune diseases or gastrointestinal disorders that may interfere with the absorption of these vitamins.
Prevention and natural treatment
Prevention of vitamin B12 or folate deficiency anemia involves adequate intake of these nutrients through diet or supplementation, especially for those at higher risk, such as older adults, vegetarians, and people with absorption issues. Incorporating foods rich in B12 and folate, like lean meats, fish, eggs, dairy products, legumes, nuts, and green leafy vegetables, can help maintain adequate levels. Treatment typically involves dietary changes and supplementation to restore deficient levels. For those unable to absorb B12 through the diet, high oral doses of B12 or even B12 injections may be necessary. Folate deficiencies are usually addressed with oral folic acid supplements. Alongside traditional treatments, functional medicine looks at the underlying causes of deficiencies, such as gut health issues or genetic factors, and might incorporate lifestyle changes alongside supplementation to treat the condition. By understanding the causes, recognizing the symptoms, and undergoing proper diagnostic tests, individuals can effectively prevent and treat vitamin B12 or folate deficiency anemia. Adopting a holistic approach that combines dietary adjustments, supplementation, and addressing any underlying health issues can lead to significant improvements in overall health and wellbeing.
Browse popular locations
Atlanta, GA- Houston, TX
- Chicago, IL
- Los Angeles, CA
- Miami, FL
- Austin, TX
- Dallas, TX
- New York, NY
- Seattle, WA
- Charlotte, NC
- Denver, CO
- Maryland, NY
Connect with an expert for Vitamin B12 or folate deficiency anaemia
