It results from the body's inability to produce a protein that is necessary for the efficient movement of vitamin B 12 from the digestive tract into the bloodstream. Not all cases of a deficiency are linked to anaemia. Sometimes, a deficiency can arise because of a more generalised sort of malabsorption caused by other diseases or by the aging process. It is therefore essential to consult your doctor to ensure the deficiency is accurately diagnosed before starting therapy with Vit B 12 . It helps build up resistance to infections in infants and is important for a healthy pregnancy.
Folic acid helps to prevent neural tube birth defects such as spina bifida and anencephaly.
Women can reduce the risk of bearing a child with these defects by supplementing folic acid prior to conception or in the early stages of pregnancy. The richest sources are liver, dark green leafy vegetables, beans, wheat germ and yeast. Other sources are egg yolk, milk and dairy products, beets, wheat and fruit. Deficiency Folic acid deficiency is one of the most common vitamin deficiencies. It can result from inadequate dietary intake, defective absorption, abnormal metabolism or increased requirements.