The Main Cause of Constant Fatigue
A deficiency of vitamins B9 and B12 is one of the lesser-known causes of persistent fatigue and may, in some people, be accompanied by symptoms such as reduced energy, brain fog, and decreased motivation.
Deficiency of vitamins B9 and B12 is one of the lesser-known causes of persistent fatigue and may be associated with symptoms such as decreased energy, fogginess, and loss of motivation in some people.
According to Ambassador Arjan, quoted by Isca News, constant fatigue is one of the most common symptoms that people go to the doctor for. The reasons for this condition are very diverse, but a new research shows that the lack of two vitamins from the B group, that is, vitamin B12 and folate or B9, may play a role in the occurrence of this problem more than it is thought.
The lack of these two vitamins is increasing for various reasons; From some diseases to the spread of vegan diets. Vitamin B12 and folate play a role in a wide range of metabolic processes in the body. These substances are necessary for the construction of DNA, growth and repair of tissues, as well as the production of some messenger chemicals in the brain that are related to mood and motivation.
When someone complains of constant fatigue, the first possibility is usually an iron deficiency. Public awareness about type 2 diabetes has also made this disease known as one of the possible causes of fatigue. However, experts say, few people think about B vitamin deficiency in the first place.
On the other hand, blood tests to measure B12 and folate do not always provide an accurate picture of the body's condition, because the level of these substances in the blood does not necessarily reflect their amount in the body's tissues.
Testing for a substance called homocysteine may provide more accurate information. Homocysteine plays a role in the same metabolic processes that depend on B12 and folate, and in people who are deficient in these vitamins, blood homocysteine levels usually increase. However, in many cases, general practitioners are not able to directly request this test and usually it must be prescribed by a hospital doctor; The issue that limits its implementation.
According to doctors, almost any disease can cause fatigue in some way. Pregnancy, depression, carbon monoxide poisoning and chronic fatigue syndrome are among the possible causes. The British Medical Guide to Fatigue also lists B12 and folate levels as possible tests; However, these tests are usually not among the first tests ordered for a person with fatigue.
A new study in Japan has shown the complexity of this relationship. Researchers surveyed more than 600 people about physical fatigue and what can be called "mental fatigue." They also measured the participants' blood levels of vitamin B12, folate, and homocysteine.
The results showed that higher levels of homocysteine, which can be a sign of B12 or folate deficiency, were associated with more severe fatigue in men. In women, this situation was also related to a decrease in mental motivation to perform activities.
In contrast, direct testing of B12 and folate showed much weaker correlations with fatigue and motivation; A finding that once again raises the possibility that these tests are insufficient to accurately diagnose the deficiency.
However, the researchers emphasize that this study does not prove that the lack of these vitamins is directly the cause of people's fatigue. They believe that for people suffering from persistent fatigue, investigating the possibility of treatment with supplements of these vitamins can be valuable. Even if the blood test results are normal or near the low limit, the doctor may suggest treatment if symptoms and risk factors are present.
B12 deficiency is not limited to fatigue. Oral ulcers, tingling sensation in the legs, memory problems and "fog" can also be its symptoms. These symptoms usually develop gradually. A decrease in B12 levels may be associated with only a slight drop in energy and increased fatigue, and then concentration problems and mental fogginess may also appear. For this reason, some people may attribute these changes to the natural aging process.
Nutrition can play a role in preventing the deficiency of these vitamins. Meat and fortified food products, including some breakfast cereals, are good sources of B12. Folate is also found in legumes, beans and green leafy vegetables.
Vegans, people with Crohn's disease, which reduces nutrient absorption, and those taking metformin for diabetes or proton pump inhibitors to reduce stomach acid are more at risk for vitamin D deficiency.
Finally, experts recommend that persistent fatigue should not be ignored. If the feeling of fatigue continues for a long time, seeing a doctor can help identify the root cause; Because behind this seemingly simple symptom, there may be a treatable problem.
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