Different parts of the body require vitamin B-12, including the eyes, liver, skin and hair. One of the most common symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency is hair loss. The cells need to divide constantly in order to produce new hair, a process that requires production of new DNA. Without enough B12, growth process slows down or stops and the existing hair starts to fall out. Hair loss accompanied by symptoms of malnutrition and gastrointestinal disorders needs should be checked for deficiencies of several vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B-12. Later you should look for suitable ways to fight the causes of hair loss.
Importance of Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12 deficiency and hair loss are related. As there are many different B vitamins, each with slightly different health benefits, most hair care experts recommend that if you have a vitamin B deficiency, you should be taking full vitamin B complex supplements or eating foods that contain all of these vitamins. The only reason for this is B vitamins work to support many vital functions of the body and they are better absorbed and produce the best results when taken together.
Vitamin B12 also known as cobalamin, is one of the B complex vitamins. Several critical biological processes depend on vitamin B12, such as red blood cell formation, cellular metabolism and DNA replication. Most people obtain vitamin B12 from their diet; however, certain groups of people, such as people older than 50, are at a higher risk of developing vitamin B12 deficiency. On the other hand, people who have difficulty absorbing nutrients from food can also suffer from B12 deficiency, a condition called pernicious anemia. A vitamin B12 deficiency can cause many symptoms, including hair loss. This deficiency is a serious health condition, and if you suspect you are vitamin B12 deficient, consult your doctor immediately.
Symptoms of Vitamin B Deficiency
A vitamin B deficiency can go unnoticed for years. There are some signs and symptoms which are very general and most people don’t think much of them until the condition gets really bad.
Now, while there are many different B vitamins, a deficiency of vitamin B12, for example, can lead to a vitamin B6 deficiency and so on. This makes it difficult to diagnosis the problem without a specialized blood test. Some signs of vitamin B deficiency are:
-
Cracked lips, especially around the edges.
-
Gray hair in people under the age of 30.
-
Dry and itchy skin, especially around the mouth.
-
Rash on the face or genitals.
-
Headaches.
-
Extreme nervousness and irritability.
-
Brittle nails.
-
Depression, lack of energy, fatigue and constant tiredness.
In these situations, a proper blood work done is very important. Sometimes, the body lacks the ability to absorb certain B vitamins which can lead to serious hair problems. So to get the right treatment solution, you need to locate a reliable specialist.
