To B12 Or Not To B12? Why Blind Supplementation Can Do More Harm Than Good
For Arnav Mehta, exhaustion was both the result and the reward of an always-on life. “It became a form of self-adulation,” says the Mumbai-based financial analyst. That was until it began dragging him down, a malaise no amount of sleep could shake off. The popular verdict was “burnout”, but Mehta’s AI confidant suggested, “B12 deficiency.” Self-prescribed B12 supplements offered little relief. A…
Arnav Mehta, a financial analyst from Mumbai, experienced exhaustion that became a self-adulation for him. However, this constant fatigue eventually became a burden. His AI confidant suggested the possibility of B12 deficiency, which he tried to alleviate by self-prescribing B12 supplements. Yet, a blood test revealed only a borderline result, leaving Mehta uncertain.
Eventually, a thyroid condition was identified as the root cause of his fatigue. Mehta's experience mirrors the common trend in India, where people often overlook persistent fatigue and instead focus on masking the symptom while disregarding potential underlying health issues. B12 deficiency is a significant public health concern in India, with studies estimating that around 53% of the population may be deficient, including 48% of adults and 57% of those under 18.
This prevalence rate is among the highest reported globally. The vitamin B12, which cannot be synthesized by humans and must be obtained through animal-source foods, fortified foods, or supplements, is essential for various bodily functions, including maintaining healthy nerve cells, producing DNA, and preventing megaloblastic anaemia.
The deficiency can stem from inadequate dietary intake, impaired nutrient absorption due to various medical conditions, or long-term use of certain medications. Symptoms of B12 deficiency may vary and can include anaemia, neurological disturbances, cognitive problems, and even permanent nervous system damage if left untreated. Despite this, many Indians resort to taking B12 supplements without understanding the underlying cause or the potential risks.
Experts warn against this trend, emphasizing the importance of identifying the deficiency through proper testing and seeking appropriate medical treatment.
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