Are you suffering from a Vitamin B12 deficiency and need additional help?
Why is Vitamin B12 important?
Vitamin B12 (B12) is involved in the metabolism of every cell of the human body, especially affecting DNA synthesis, fatty acid and amino acid metabolism. It is required for the formation of red blood cells and in the function of the brain and nervous system.
Why does Vitamin B12 deficiency occur?
The human body cannot make B12, so it must be obtained from the diet. Sources of B12 include fish, shellfish, meat, liver, eggs, poultry and dairy products. Therefore B12 deficiency can occur due to the adherence to vegetarian and vegan diets which restrict the dietary intake of animal products and hence B12.
Patients with Pernicious Anaemia also suffer from B12 deficiency. This is due to the absence of intrinsic factor (a glycoprotein). Intrinsic factor is usually present in the gut and is essential for efficient B12 absorption. Thus its absence leads to B12 deficiency.
It is widely assumed that once that deficiency is corrected the patient will feel well again and the symptoms will disappear. Whilst this happens with some patients, many will still experience the symptoms with various degrees of intensity, whilst others will not experience any lessening of the symptoms and will be faced with having to make some life-changing decisions relating to their work and family life.
Research into patients with B12 deficiency
For many years, scientists at Viapath have been studying B12 with a particular focus on the laboratory assessment of status. Recently, working with the Pernicious Anaemia Society, it was discovered that many suffers of pernicious anaemia feel underserved and frequently look for supplementary care. This study has led Viapath to design a new service (Viapath Nutris) to support patients with gaining a better understanding of their B12 status and the management of a deficient state, by getting direct access to relevant state-of-the-art test panels.
Viapath has also been learning from vegans. Vegans often take a proactive approach to their health but, are aware that they are prone to B12 deficiency, many taking supplements to prevent this. However, the research indicated that many would like to take a more scientific approach to monitoring B12 to ensure their efforts to manage it are effective.
Viapath Nutris
Viapath is introducing a new service that will allow patients to go online, select a test panel, and in some cases, have results within 24 hours of having their blood drawn. Clear, jargon-free information will help users to select the right test for them and understand their results, which include a personalised interpretation and links to scientifically backed, in-depth and cutting-edge articles and information on nutritional science and related pathologies.
Viapath Nutris, coming soon.
