overview
Vitamin B12 is essential for our health and there is a wealth of literature on the subject. You can find out how to recognize vitamin B12 deficiency symptoms and protect your nerves on NDR, for example. The NHR also deals with the topic of vitamin B12 supply (English link) . In the following article, we will show you why vitamin B12 is so important and how you can easily check your vitamin B12 level.
What is vitamin B12?
Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is an essential vitamin that plays an important role in the body. It is necessary for the formation of red blood cells, DNA synthesis, and the proper functioning of the nervous system. Since the body cannot produce vitamin B12 on its own, it must be obtained through food.
When should a vitamin B12 deficiency be feared?
A vitamin B12 deficiency can occur especially in the following situations:
- Vegetarian or vegan diet: Vitamin B12 is found mainly in animal products, so people who follow a plant-based diet are at higher risk of deficiency.
- Age: As you age, your body’s ability to absorb vitamin B12 from food may decrease.
- Certain medical conditions: Conditions such as pernicious anemia or conditions that impair the absorption of nutrients can lead to a deficiency.
Negative consequences of a vitamin B12 deficiency
A deficiency in vitamin B12 can cause serious health problems, including:
Anemia:
A lack of red blood cells leads to fatigue, weakness and paleness.
Neurological problems:
Low levels of vitamin B12 can cause nerve damage, which can lead to tingling, numbness, and difficulty walking.
Cognitive impairments:
A deficiency can also lead to memory loss, confusion and dementia.
overdose of vitamin B12
Overdose of vitamin B12 is rare because excess vitamin B12 is normally excreted in the urine. However, it is important to monitor intake and ensure that the dosage is appropriate.
How is vitamin B12 determined and what are the reference values?
Vitamin B12 levels are usually determined by a blood test that measures the concentration of total vitamin B12 in the blood. In some cases, holotranscobalamin, the active form of vitamin B12, is also measured to get a more accurate picture of B12 status.
Reference values for vitamin B12:
- Deficiency: < 200 pg/ml
- Borderline: 200-300 pg/ml
- Sufficient: > 300 pg/ml
These values may vary slightly depending on the source and laboratory, but they provide a general guideline for interpreting your results.
How can I check my vitamin B12 levels with Probatix?
With Probatix, checking your vitamin D levels is easy. Our service offers you the opportunity to take a vitamin D test from the comfort of your own home. Here's how it works:
1. Order test:
Visit our website and order the vitamin B12 test.
2. Sampling:
Choose between one of our partners in your area or a practical home test kit. With self-collection, you will receive a kit that contains everything you need to take a small blood sample safely and painlessly.
3. Send sample:
Send your blood sample to our certified laboratory. We will take care of the rest.
4. Receive results digitally:
Receive your test results digitally and in a traceable manner. Simply log into your Probatix account and check your values.
Vitamin B12 Test
Vitamin B12 Test
A vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to anemia, neurological damage and cognitive impairment. Check your vitamin B12 level to detect fatigue, concentration problems and nervous disorders early and take timely action. This test evaluates the "total vitamin B12" parameter.
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Benefits of digitally tracking your assets
Digitally tracking your vitamin B12 levels offers numerous benefits:
- Clarity: All test results are collected in one place and can be accessed at any time.
- Traceability: You can observe your values over a longer period of time and thus identify trends.
- Simplicity: Clear presentation of results helps you better understand and monitor your health.
- Security: Your data is protected and only accessible to you.
What now?
Take your health into your own hands and ensure that your body is optimally supplied with vitamin B12. Order your vitamin B12 test from Probatix today and receive reliable results from the comfort of your own home.
Further links
- The German Nutrition Society emphasizes the importance of vitamin B12
- The Austrian website gesundheit.av.at also provides a good overview of the topic
- Dietary supplements for vitamin B12 are available, for example, from Ratiopharm [no advertising link] or Wörwag Pharma [also no advertising link]
