According to expert Pooja, Nutritionist, Fortis Hospital, Cunningham Road, Bengaluru (India), many men over 50 years old often ignore signs such as prolonged fatigue, tingling in the hands or feet, sudden mood swings or decreased endurance, considering them just signs of aging. However, experts warn that this can be a symptom of vitamin B12 deficiency, a common but often overlooked nutritional problem.
After age 50, metabolism slows down and nutrient absorption is reduced, increasing the risk of vitamin B12 deficiency.
Why vitamin B12 is more important after 50
Vitamin B12 plays an important role in:
Neurological health
Red blood cell production
DNA synthesis
B12 deficiency reduces the body's ability to transport oxygen, causing fatigue, shortness of breath, cognitive decline and negatively affecting cardiovascular health. According to nutritionist Pooja, men over 50 often confuse symptoms of B12 deficiency with stress or lifestyle, so checking vitamin B12 levels is very important.
Common symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency
Signs that may appear gradually and become more severe if not detected:
Frequent fatigue
Numbness, tingling or burning in the hands and feet
Difficulty concentrating, memory loss
Discouraged or angry
pale skin
Loss of appetite or weight loss
Weak muscle, unstable gait
The main cause of B12 deficiency in men over 50
Some common factors include:
Reduce stomach acid: Reduces the ability to release vitamin B12 from food.
Long-term medication: Anti-acid drugs, metformin, proton pump inhibitors can affect B12 absorption.
Digestive disorders: Diseases such as gastritis or irritable bowel syndrome reduce the ability to absorb nutrients.
Low-vehicle diet: Leads to a lack of natural B12 supplies.
Experts' advice on B12 management and control
Prioritize foods rich in vitamin B12: For animal sources including lean meat, salmon, tuna, eggs, yogurt, paneer cheese and dietary supplements; for vegetarians or veganists, they can use dietary supplements and nutrient-dense plants.
Monitor medication: Discuss with your doctor about medications that may affect B12 absorption.
Consider using supplements: Take a vitamin B12 pillow or injection depending on your absorption status, always consult your doctor before using.
Regular health check-ups: Blood tests help detect deficiency early and make timely adjustments.
Improve gut health: Supplement probiotic-rich foods like curd, dairy butter and fermented foods.
