Vitamin B12 is one of the most important micronutrients for human health, given its influence on different functions of the organism. Mainly, it is an essential vitamin in the production of red blood cellsand cellular DNA formation.
When the organism does not have the right amount of vitamin B12, different symptoms of tiredness, weakness or fatigue may appear. Thus, one of the most serious negative effects of a deficiency of this micronutrient is the appearance of megaloblastic anemia.
Another aspect to bear in mind about vitamin B12 is that it is only found in foods of animal origin. That is to say, it is not present in any vegetable, fruit or vegetable; at least in a natural form.
Therefore, people who do not consume foods of animal origin in their diet are more likely to develop a deficiency of this vitamin in the organism.
Relationship of renal insufficiency and vitamin B12
People with kidney failure receive a type of treatment called hemodialysis. Thus, people who develop this type of disease are forced to modify their diet to some extent for the benefit of their well-being.
Thus, for patients with renal insufficiency, medical specialists recommend consuming foods rich in B vitamins. In this sense, vitamin B6, B12 or folic acid work together with EPO and iron to prevent the onset of other diseases that may be more harmful to people with kidney failure.
Studies related to renal failure
Regarding the relationship between vitamin B12 and renal failure, there are different studies that link both. Thus, in a research study carried out in patients with diabetic nephropathy who were implanted with vitamin B, it was found that the micronutrients belonging to this group of vitamins were well tolerated by the organism of these people.
On the other hand, a research work led by the University of Granada indicates that a person with chronic renal insufficiency can consume 2.4 μg/day of vitamin B12 in his diet.
However, before modifying the diet, especially in people with renal failure, it is necessary to consult a medical specialist to establish specific dietary guidelines.
On the other hand, it should be noted that there are no contraindications for the administration of vitamin B12 intramuscularly for a patient after renal transplantation, with megaloblastic anemia and with a low concentration of this vitamin in the serum.
That is, experts already point out that vitamin B12 levels in patients with megaloblastic anemia is already an indication to start supplementation. In this sense, supplementation of this vitamin after renal transplantation is not considered a contraindication.
