Pernicious anaemia is a type of B12 deficiency caused by poor absorption, leading to fatigue, memory issues, and enlarged red blood cells. Learn about symptoms, causes, and the best dietary and supplement solutions.
B12 absorption requires hydrochloric acid in the stomach and intrinsic factor, a compound produced by parietal cells that binds with B12 to facilitate absorption in the small intestine.
As a subgroup of megaloblastic anaemia, pernicious anaemia leads to enlarged red blood cells.
Symptoms often include extreme fatigue, poor concentration, and memory issues. Despite being a water-soluble vitamin, B12 can be stored in the body for some time[i], meaning symptoms may take a while to develop.
Vegan diets are typically low in vitamin B12, so incorporating algaes or supplementation may help prevent deficiency.
If a B12 deficiency is diagnosed, dietary changes and supplementation may be necessary.
Vitamin B12 found in sea vegetables is not efficiently utilised by the body and should not be relied upon for supplementation.
For more on related deficiencies, see Therapedia’s article on Anemia for Iron Deficiency.
[i] Jansen EH, Beekhof PK, Cremers JW, Schenk E. Long-term (in)stability of folate and vitamin B12 in human serum. Clin Chem Lab Med. 2012;50(10):1761‐1763. doi:10.1515/cclm-2012-0108
Please note that the information contained within this website does not and should not replace medical advice, and is not intended to treat or diagnose. We always recommend you consult with your doctor. Our Nutritional Therapy team is highly trained and we offer one to one Nutritional Therapy Consultations, which are designed to be complementary to any medical treatment from a functional medicine approach, as well as offering a preventative & optimal health focus.