Many Americans are Deficient in Vitamin B12

By Jody Smith HERWriter

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If you're low on energy, you just might be low on Vitamin B12 as well. Studies have shown that as much as 25 percent of the U.S. population has a deficiency in this important vitamin.

Vegetarians and vegans may well be the hardest hit since Vitamin B12 can only be found in animal sources. It's important to take a supplement if meat, eggs, or dairy products are not a regular part of your diet.

As people get older, their bodies are less able to absorb B12, and they are more likely to develop a deficiency.

"The older you become the more your digestive system breaks down, especially if you have been eating the standard American diet. The use of antacids as well as anti-ulcer medications will also lower your stomach acid secretion and reduce your ability to absorb vitamin B 12. An infection with Helicobactor pylori, a common contributor to stomach ulcers, can also result in vitamin B12 deficiency."

http://www.wholefoodandmore.net/2010/03/vitamin-b12-for-more-than-energy.html

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We value and respect our HERWriters' experiences, but everyone is different. Many of our writers are speaking from personal experience, and what's worked for them may not work for you. Their articles are not a substitute for medical advice, although we hope you can gain knowledge from their insight.