Sometimes you can feel “old” and have no idea why. It could be a little extra fatigue, some confusion, or a difficult lack of strength that you chalk up to age.
These things can creep up slowly, after all, making them difficult to notice.
But what if it’s not just normal aging? Sometimes, there is an underlying reason you’re feeling this way.
It’s estimated that 20 percent of people over 60 have low levels of vitamin B12. Many likely have no idea. It’s not the first thing that may come to your doctor’s mind when you report symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, or disorientation.
- Fatigue
- Weakness
- Shortness of breath
- Constipation
- Tingling in numbness in the hands or feet
- Memory loss
- Disorientation
- Paranoia
- Irritability
According to the Institute of Medicine, 10 to 30 percent of people over 60 have a hard time absorbing all the B12 from their food. The reason is that stomach acid production declines with age, and the enzymes responsible for B12 may end up lacking. Further, people 60 and over are more likely to be on medications that can impact absorption. Metformin, the diabetes drug, and heartburn medications such as Zantac and Prilosec can also inhibit vitamin B12 uptake.
If you’re feeling “old,” trying to boost vitamin B12 intake might help. Including more meat, poultry, fish, dairy, and eggs might help you get there. Swapping some eggs or Greek yogurt for a carb-heavy breakfast might also work, as can adding some fish or meat to lunch salads. If you are concerned about B12 levels, talk to your doctor about supplementation, as well.
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