A - Z of Vitamins & Supplements

Vitamin B12 or B9 (folate) deficiency anaemia can cause a wide range of symptoms. These usually develop gradually but can worsen if the condition goes untreated. Anaemia is where you have fewer red blood cells than normal or you have an abnormally low amount of a substance called haemoglobin in each red blood cell. It's important for vitamin B12 or folate deficiency anaemia to be diagnosed and treated as soon as possible.

Vitamin B12 and Folate deficiency can cause a wide range of problems, including: extreme tiredness; a lack of energy; pins and needles (paraesthesia); a sore and red tongue; mouth ulcers; muscle weakness; disturbed vision; psychological problems, which may include depression and confusion; problems with memory, understanding and judgement.

Vitamin B12 deficiency and folate deficiency are more common in older people, affecting around 1 in 10 people aged 75 or over, and 1 in 20 people aged 65 to 74.

Vitamin B Deficiency - Vitamins for Addiction  (Alcohol, Drugs & Tobacco): The most common deficiencies from alcoholism include thiamine, pyridoxine and folic acid, Thiamine is a Vitamin B found in meat, grains and yeast and it helps metabolize carbohydrates. Vitamin B6 is found in Fish, liver, cereals and yeast. Green vegetables, fruit and liver contain folic acid. B vitamin foods also include poultry, nuts, brown rice and dairy products. Broccoli, asparagus, potatoes, bananas, apricots and figs contain B vitamins. Eat as much as you can include in your daily diet.

• Addiction (Alcohol, Drugs and Tobacco)