15 Facts About Vitamin B12 Injections

2. Senior citizens

As people age, the ability of their bodies to absorb vitamins and minerals may deteriorate. They also tend to eat less than before. These factors combined may result in lower levels of substances such as Vitamin B12.

The problems with absorption of vitamins and minerals lie in changes to the digestive system that occurs with advancing age. The stomach produces less acid. This means food is not broken down and absorbed properly. Many nutrients are lost during the digestive process when the stomach doesn’t break them down for absorption in the gut.

A decreased appetite is normal as you grow older. Many older people adopt less-healthy eating habits. This is especially true of those who live alone. There is a tendency to avoid cooking for one. This often results in a less-than-desirable diet that doesn’t contain enough vitamins and minerals.

A lower level of Vitamin B12 is also associated with fatigue, irritability and memory loss in the older generation. Since a deficiency is more probable over time, senior citizens should have their vitamin and mineral levels tested to ensure they are at acceptable levels.