Risk Factors Associated With A Vitamin B12 Deficiency

Bacterial Growths Or Parasites

Sometimes bacterial growths or parasites may lead to a deficiency in vitamin B12. In the developed world, this is a less common cause of a vitamin B12 deficiency, but it is a possibility. An overgrowth of certain types of bacteria in the gut can prevent vitamin B12 from being absorbed from food. Normal, healthy intestines contain a whole ecosystem of bacteria that help humans digest their food. However, sometimes the intestines become infected with a bacterial species that is not supposed to be there. The unwelcome bacteria can start to take over and interfere with digestion and nutrient absorption. This leads to deficiencies in several vitamins including vitamin B12. Parasites like tapeworm and giardiasis can also interfere with nutrient absorption and cause a vitamin B12 deficiency. These parasites steal nutrients from their hosts and cause all kinds of deficiencies and malnutrition. Individuals can become infected when they eat or drink contaminated food or beverages.