Vitamin B12

Who is most at risk of B12 deficiency?

Vegetarians, vegans, older adults, people with certain digestive disorders, and those on long-term acid-reducing medication are all at increased risk and may benefit from periodic testing.

Can B12 deficiency be reversed?

Yes, with appropriate supplementation — either oral or injectable, depending on the cause and severity — most people see significant improvement, though some nerve-related symptoms may take longer to fully resolve if the deficiency was severe or prolonged.

Do vegetarians and vegans need to test for B12 regularly?

It's generally a good idea, since diet alone rarely provides sufficient B12 without supplementation for those following a plant-based diet.