Why should I get the B12 Test done?

B12 Test in Women:You start feeling dizzy, unexplained fatigue, forgetfulness and you end up at the doctor’s clinic. The doctor examines you and prescribes a series of test including the B 12 test which is quite expensive. The first doubt would be as to what is the link between your symptoms and B 12? The common most problem among women apart from anemia, thyroid and calcium deficits is the low levels of B 12 vitamins. After the onset of marriage, motherhood and raising children, women tend to neglect their overall body health. Usually after breast feeding which depletes your calcium and vitamin levels this B12 deficiency puts the mother and child at risk for Neuro problems.

This test is prescribed when you start feeling these symptoms of fatigue, tingling in the hands and feet, problems with balance, confusion, weakness, loss of appetite and lethargy. Also, if your doctor suspects you might have anemia, you might be tested for B12 deficiency.Another reason is people who are vegetarians may not get their required dose of Vitamin B 12 which can be found more in meat and dairy products like, eggs, fish, poultry and meat. So additional supplements would be needed through medication, if the B12 levels are low.

B12 is an important vitamin for many basic bodily functions, like the brain health, blood cell production, and proper nerve functioning. Low B12 levels can lead to serious nerve damage and deteriorating brain functions if not verified and treated properly. The test is fairly simple— a presription for the test and some blood drawn from your hand which only takes a few minutes, but can provide extremely valuable information about the presence or absence of this importnat vitamin in your body.

As we grow older we need to get this test done as and when prescribed by your physician so that you maintain optimum levels of B12 for better health and energy.