Vitamin B12 deficiency is a common but often overlooked issue in older adults, and it can have serious health consequences if left untreated. In this episode, Geriatrician Leslie Kernisan, MD MPH, explains why vitamin B12 is essential for nerve function, red blood cell production, and overall brain health.
Learn about the causes of B12 deficiency, including age-related changes, digestive issues, and conditions like pernicious anemia. Dr. Kernisan also discusses the subtle symptoms that may be missed in routine care, the importance of early testing, and how simple treatments can improve energy, memory, and well-being.
If you’re caring for an aging parent or want to maintain your own health as you age, this conversation provides practical, science-based insights on preventing, diagnosing, and treating vitamin B12 deficiency for better long-term outcomes.
Related article: https://betterhealthwhileaging.net/how-to-avoid-harm-vitamin-b12-deficiency
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Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Vitamin B12 Deficiency
03:01 What is Vitamin B12?
07:12 Common Causes of Vitamin B12 Deficiency in Older Adults
09:24 Symptoms of Vitamin B12 Deficiency
11:59 Pernicious Anemia and Its Relation to B12 Deficiency
13:45 Why Vitamin B12 Deficiency is Often Missed
16:18 Who Should Be Checked for Vitamin B12 Deficiency?
17:12 Testing for Vitamin B12 Deficiency
20:42 Treatment Options for Vitamin B12 Deficiency
24:22 Preventing Vitamin B12 Deficiency
27:53 Recap and Key Takeaways
Need more guidance on supporting aging parents? Visit Dr. K’s Helping Older Parents program: https://betterhealthwhileaging.net/helping-older-parents/
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Disclaimer: The material on the Better Health While Aging Youtube channel, including any exchanges in the comments section, is for informational and educational purposes only. Any comments Dr. Kernisan may make regarding an individual’s story or comments should not be construed as establishing a physician-patient relationship between Dr. Kernisan and a caregiver, or care recipient. None of Dr. Kernisan’s website, social media, comments, or group information should be considered a substitute for individualized medical assessment, diagnosis, or treatment. Please see the full disclaimer for more information: https://betterhealthwhileaging.net/disclaimer/
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