How can you differentiate B12 deficiency from folic acid deficiency anemia?

How can you differentiate B12 deficiency from folic acid deficiency anemia?

Additional testing with homocysteine and MMA determinations may help distinguish between B12 and folate deficiency states. In folate deficiency, homocysteine levels are elevated and MMA levels are normal. In vitamin B12 deficiency, both homocysteine levels and MMA levels are elevated.

Which anemia is related to folate and or vitamin B12 deficiency?

Red blood cells carry oxygen around the body. Most people with vitamin B12 or folate deficiency anaemia have underdeveloped red blood cells that are larger than normal. The medical term for this is megaloblastic anaemia. A vitamin B12 or folate deficiency can be the result of a variety of problems.

Is folic acid and vitamin B12 the same thing?

Vitamin B12, also called cobalamin, is found in foods from animals, such as red meat, fish, poultry, milk, yogurt, and eggs. Folate (Vitamin B9) refers to a natural occurring form of the vitamin, whereas folic acid refers to the supplement added to foods and drinks.

How much B12 should I take daily for anemia?

Left untreated, a vitamin B-12 deficiency can lead to anemia, fatigue, muscle weakness, intestinal problems, nerve damage and mood disturbances. The recommended daily amount of vitamin B-12 for adults is 2.4 micrograms.

How long it will take to recover from B12 deficiency?

Once you begin treating your vitamin B12 deficiency, it can take up to six to 12 months to fully recover. It is also common to not experience any improvement during the first few months of treatment.

Can you take folic acid and B12 at the same time?

No interactions were found between folic acid and Vitamin B12. This does not necessarily mean no interactions exist. Always consult your healthcare provider.

What does high B12 blood levels really mean?

High blood B12 levels can occur in liver conditions such as cirrhosis and hepatitis. Alcoholic liver disease is an example of a liver condition associated with high vitamin B12 . With alcoholic liver disease, vitamin B12 as well as its carrier proteins can be elevated.

Is a high folic acid level bad?

A high folic acid level is usually not a problem; however, it could indicate a vitamin B-12 deficiency. This is because the body needs vitamin B-12 to process folic acid properly. A low folic acid level may indicate an anemia, folic acid deficiency, or malabsorption problems.

What vitamins are in vitamin B12?

Vitamin B12 is crucial to the human body, which needs it to produce new DNA, red blood cells, proteins, hormones and lipids (fats). Vitamin B12 is also key to the health of nerves. Vitamin B12 is part of the vitamin B complex , which includes thiamin, niacin, vitamin B6, folate and vitamin B12.

What do folate levels indicate?

Folate levels indicate whether someone is getting enough folic acid, an important dietary nutrient. Healthy individuals have between 2.7 and 17.0 nanograms per milliliter. If the levels are low, the patient is not getting enough folic acid.