Vitamin A & B12 Deficiency – No Longer a “Third World” Problem

Access to nutrient-rich, animal-based foods used to be the primary driver of Vitamin A & Vitamin B12 deficiency.  And this is why it was common in poorer countries that are forced to rely on a diet of grains, beans and tubers. 

Unfortunately, this has now become a “First World” Problem, because of individuals ill-informed decision to restrict or eliminate nutrient-rich, animal-based foods.  The sad part being, that deficiencies in both Vitamin A and B12 are often subtle.  And can often go on for an extended period unnoticed before something more serious develops. 

Early Signs of Vitamin A Deficiency include:

1. Night Blindness: Difficulty seeing in low light or darkness.
2. Dry Eyes: A condition known as xerophthalmia, which can lead to corneal damage.
3. Dry Skin: Flaky or rough skin due to impaired skin cell production.
4. Increased Susceptibility to Infections: Weakened immune response.
5. Delayed Wound Healing: Slower recovery from cuts and infections.
6. Growth Issues: In children, it can affect growth and development.
7. Keratinization: The skin and mucous membranes may become rough and dry.

Early Signs of Vitamin B12 Deficiency include:

1. Fatigue: General weakness and tiredness.
2. Anemia: Macrocytic anemia can cause pale skin and shortness of breath.
3. Neurological Issues: Tingling or numbness in the hands and feet, difficulty walking, and balance problems.
4. Cognitive Changes: Memory loss, confusion, and difficulty concentrating.
5. Mood Changes: Depression, irritability, or mood swings.
6. Glossitis and Mouth Ulcers: Inflammation of the tongue and mouth sores.
7. Vision Problems: Blurred or disturbed vision due to optic nerve damage.

 And other than a lack of animal-based food sources (meat, organs, egg yolks, raw dairy, etc), deficiency can results from poor absorption (low stomach acid) or a more serious gastrointestinal condition (celiac disease, pancreatitis). 

For those that need a test, here are the Best Indicators of Vitamin A Deficiency:

1. Serum Retinol Levels: Measuring the level of retinol (the active form of vitamin A) in the blood. Levels below 20 µg/dL generally indicate deficiency.

2. Clinical Symptoms: Observing symptoms such as night blindness, dry eyes (xerophthalmia), and skin issues.

3. Liver Biopsy: In certain cases, a liver biopsy can be performed to assess vitamin A stores, as the liver is the primary storage site for vitamin A.

4. Dietary Assessment: Evaluating dietary intake of vitamin A-rich foods, such as liver, dairy, and dark leafy greens.

5. Visual Tests: Specialized tests for night blindness can help assess functional deficiency.

And Best Indicators of B12 Deficiency:

1. Serum Vitamin B12 Level: This directly measures the amount of B12 in the blood. Levels below 200 pg/mL are generally considered deficient.

2. Methylmalonic Acid (MMA) Test: Elevated levels of MMA indicate a B12 deficiency, as B12 is required for its metabolism.

3. Homocysteine Level: High homocysteine levels can suggest a B12 deficiency, as B12 is necessary for converting homocysteine to methionine.

4. Complete Blood Count (CBC): Anemia, particularly macrocytic anemia (enlarged red blood cells), can indicate B12 deficiency.

For those that don’t need a test and/or understand they’re not prioritizing nutrient-rich, animal-based foods, our Bovine Liver is the best way to raise both – without the inconvenience or mental battle required to actually eat liver!