New Delhi, Oct 25 A blood test can determine whether you are deficient in any vitamins or not. Many people self-medicate or take dietary supplements for vitamin deficiencies. A study conducted by Pune-based Apollo Diagnostic has ruled out deficiency of vitamin D and B12 increasing with age and finds that blood tests and doctors consultation are required for taking a proper dose and avoiding risks.
To understand the prevalence of Vitamin D and B12 deficiencies in people, Apollo Diagnostic, Pune conducted a study by taking blood samples of 3,000 adult patients who came for a blood test in the last six months, in which 1673 were males and 1327 were females aged between 20-60 years. It revealed that about 70 percent of patients were with Vitamin D deficiency and 53 percent lacked Vitamin B12. Almost 15 percent of patients were taking self-dietary supplements for vitamin.
While sunlight and fortified foods are two possible sources of vitamin D, due to the change in lifestyle and food habits, many people take dietary supplements to get adequate levels of this vitamin. A doctor may recommend a lower or higher dose for you, depending on health conditions or the level of vitamin D in your blood.
As per Dr Sanjay Ingle, Zonal Pathologist, and Technical Head West India, Apollo Diagnostic, "Mild to moderate vitamin D deficiency is identified as a risk factor for Type 2 diabetes, due to its protective role against the development of Type 2 diabetes mellitus and its complications. It increases insulin resistance and reducing insulin secretion from beta cells of the pancreas. Vitamin D deficiency has been consistently associated with an increased risk for cardiovascular disease, low bone density, fractures, osteoporosis, and hypertension. Vitamin B12 deficiency leads to memory loss, depression, muscle weakness, tingling, and numbness."
"Vitamin D and B12 deficiencies often remain undiagnosed or are undertreated as many people avoid proper investigation for vitamin deficiency and start self-supplement without recommendations from experts. Vitamin D and B12 are important for skeletal and non skeletal health. The recommended daily intake
( With inputs from IANS )
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