B12 Deficiency in Pregnancy

What is Vitamin B12 and where does it come from?

Vitamin B12 is an essential nutrient in humans, is made by bacteria, and is responsible for a myriad of functions within the body. It plays a role in the metabolism of many foods and helps ensure the health of red blood cells and the nervous system.

The bacteria which produce Vitamin B12 can be found in a range of soils, and is produced in the gut of ruminant animals. As these animals produce their own B12 from bacteria inside their gut, B12 is able to accumulate and is, therefore, found primarily in dietary animal products. As a result of current hygiene and sanitisation processes Vitamin B12 is found in inadequate quantities in plant products. 

The body stores B12 in great quantities, mostly in the liver. Despite being stored in high quantities, the kidneys excrete small amounts of the vitamin daily and thus adequate dietary intake is important.

Growlife Medical are experienced in treating B12 Deficiency in pregnancy. Please contact us today for advice.

Who is at risk of becoming B12 deficient?

• Those following a vegetarian or vegan diet
• Pregnant or breastfeeding women
• Acquired malabsorption of B12
• Individuals with Coeliac or Irritable Bowel Disease
• Chronic use of metformin
• Bowel or stomach surgery (gastrectomy or ileal resection)
• History of autoimmune disease or pernicious anaemia
• Age related malabsorption
• Individuals with inherited disorders of B12 absorption
  

What the symptoms of B12 Deficiency in Pregnancy?

It is quite common to have no symptoms, even if you are B12 deficiency. We tend to recommend checking your B12 if you are in any of the risk categories above. However, if your B12 deficiency is severe, you could experience:

• Anaemia (Anaemia is much more commonly due to Iron Deficiency in Pregnancy)
• Swollen, Sore or Inflamed Tongue
• Fatigue
• Memory Problems
• Numbness or Tingling in the Hands or Feet
• Other unusual neurological symptoms
  

What are some sources of B12? 

• Nutritional Yeast
• Fortified animal product alternatives (e.g. soy milk)
• Animal products (e.g. beef, eggs, milk)
• Oral or injected supplementation

If you are concerned that you may be deficient in Vitamin B12 or for more information please consult your doctor to work out the next best steps.

Is Vitamin B12 important in pregnancy?

Due to increased metabolic demands during pregnancy it is easier to become deficient in B12 and this should be monitored throughout pregnancy if you are at risk of B12 deficiency. Deficiencies in B12 during pregnancy can lead to neural tube and brain defects, and supplementation can help prevent spina bifida and nervous system abnormalities. Additionally, B12 can improve energy, mood, and stress levels throughout pregnancy.

Growlife Medical Are Pregnancy Experts

We provide expert community care of pregnancy, with doctors, midwives and dieticians ready to help you through your pregnancy. Please chat to us at Growlife Medical.

We are also Brisbane's leader in Telehealth Consults, Growlife Medical now provides easy and secure Telehealth Consults with your doctor. You can easily book online or over the phone, for a video or phone consult with your GP. All Growlife Medical Doctors in all or our general practice locations are available for Telehealth consults.