Vitamin B12 :- Like Folic Acid, Vitamin B12 is also essential for the formation of red blood cells and deficiency of Vitamin B12 leads to certain type of anemia (low hemoglobin). Deficiency of Vitamin B12 can also lead to paralysis and weakness of the limbs due to involvement of the nerves in the spinal cord. Dietary deficiency of Vitamin B12 is rare and is usually seen in children on exclusive vegetarian diet with inadequate intake of milk and plant food. Also deficiency of Vitamin B12 is seen in patients with "PERNICIOUS AWEMIA" due to absence of a factor called as 'Intrinsic Factor' in the stomach. Good sources of Vitamin B12 are milk, eggs and meat.

Last updated on 1-7-2006