I am 26 years old. i eat alot of meat. i have a b12 deficiancy (212). why do i h!
Question:
I am 26 years old. i eat alot of meat. i have a b12 deficiancy (212). why do i have this if i am not a vegan?
Answers:
B12 deficiency in your case suggests a malabsorption problem. Inadequate stomach acid production (hypochlorhydria) is common and can prevent the digestion and absorption of B12 from food sources. Use of acid inhibiting drugs (e.g. Nexium, Prilosec, etc) cause B12 deficiency for this reason. Are you using these types of drugs?
Less common, but even more serious, is a condition called Pernicious Anemia. This condition results in loss of a molecule produced in the gut called Intrinsic Factor (IF). IF is needed for absorption of B12. Lack of IF results in lack of B12 absorption.
You need to see your doctor for proper testing to determine the CAUSE of your B12 deficiency. If your doctor has not already done this, find a new doctor.
Best wishes and good luck.