Nutrition

Vitamin B12 Deficiency

Vitamin B12 Deficiency

Nutritional focus for megaloblastic anemia, often seen in vegans or patients with absorption issues (Pernicious anemia).

Dietary Sources

  • Animal products: meat, fish, eggs, and dairy.
  • Fortified nutritional yeast or breakfast cereals.
  • Advise vegans to take supplements or consume fortified foods.

Clinical Considerations

  • Pernicious anemia requires lifelong B12 injections as it lacks intrinsic factor.
  • Monitor for neurological symptoms (numbness, tingling, ataxia).
  • Assess for glossitis (smooth, beefy-red tongue).

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