This topic contains a solution. Click here to go to the answer

Author Question: Discuss the various factors that can lead to vitamin B12 ... (Read 7 times)

bobthebuilder

  • Hero Member
  • *****
  • Posts: 567
Discuss the various factors that can lead to vitamin B12 deficiency.

Question 2

Why are folate and vitamin B12 so important to each other?



Related Topics

Need homework help now?

Ask unlimited questions for free

Ask a Question
Marked as best answer by a Subject Expert

TDubDCFL

  • Sr. Member
  • ****
  • Posts: 357
Answer to Question 1

It can result from inadequate intake or poor absorption. Primary B12 deficiency is sometimes seen in vegans or infants being fed by B12-deficient mothers. Secondary B12 deficiency occurs when gastric cells do not produce intrinsic factor or hydrochloric acid as a result of age, genetic defects, GI infections, surgeries, or medications.

Answer to Question 2

Folate and B12 are both required to produce methionine from homocysteine. A deficiency of either of these vitamins causes a build-up of homocysteine. High levels of homocysteine are associated with increased risk for heart disease. Folate deficiency can mask vitamin B12 deficiency. Megaloblastic, macrocytic anemia associated with primary and secondary vitamin B12 deficiency is caused by secondary folate (THF) deficiency. Folate gets trapped as inactive 5-methyl THF when vitamin B12 is not available. Severe neurological damage can occur and be fatal if B12 deficiency is misdiagnosed as a folate deficiency.




bobthebuilder

  • Member
  • Posts: 567
Reply 2 on: Aug 20, 2018
Excellent


scottmt

  • Member
  • Posts: 322
Reply 3 on: Yesterday
:D TYSM

 

Did you know?

More than 4.4billion prescriptions were dispensed within the United States in 2016.

Did you know?

The first documented use of surgical anesthesia in the United States was in Connecticut in 1844.

Did you know?

Fatal fungal infections may be able to resist newer antifungal drugs. Globally, fungal infections are often fatal due to the lack of access to multiple antifungals, which may be required to be utilized in combination. Single antifungals may not be enough to stop a fungal infection from causing the death of a patient.

Did you know?

Immunoglobulin injections may give short-term protection against, or reduce severity of certain diseases. They help people who have an inherited problem making their own antibodies, or those who are having certain types of cancer treatments.

Did you know?

Side effects from substance abuse include nausea, dehydration, reduced productivitiy, and dependence. Though these effects usually worsen over time, the constant need for the substance often overcomes rational thinking.

For a complete list of videos, visit our video library