Vitamin B12 After 60

Why B12 Deficiency Is Common After 60

Vitamin B12 absorption declines significantly with age. The stomach produces less "intrinsic factor" — a protein necessary for B12 absorption from food. Additionally, many older adults take acid-reducing medications (PPIs, H2 blockers) that further impair B12 absorption. As a result, B12 deficiency affects an estimated 10–30% of adults over 60.

What Vitamin B12 Does

• Energy production — B12 is essential for converting food into usable energy at the cellular level
• Nerve function — Maintains the protective myelin sheath around nerve fibers
• Red blood cell production — B12 deficiency causes megaloblastic anemia, leading to extreme fatigue
• DNA synthesis — Critical for cell division and repair
• Cognitive health — Deficiency is linked to memory problems, confusion, and increased dementia risk

⚠️ Signs of B12 Deficiency

• Extreme, persistent fatigue
• Weakness and lightheadedness
• Tingling or numbness in hands and feet
• Memory problems and difficulty concentrating
• Pale or yellowish skin
• Mood changes or depression

🥩 Food Sources of B12

B12 is found almost exclusively in animal products: meat, fish, poultry, eggs, and dairy. If you follow a vegetarian or vegan diet, supplementation is essential.

Important: B12 deficiency can develop slowly over years and is often missed. Ask your doctor to check your B12 level with a simple blood test.