Malabsorption: A hidden cause of B12 deficiency

Netahnpaul8612 Oct, 2020Health

In a very small portion of the population, vitamin B12 deficiency is caused by a lack of intrinsic factor, a protein secreted by the stomach lining that binds to vitamin B12 and enables its absorption. Lack of intrinsic factor can be caused by weakened stomach lining or certain autoimmune diseases. This can lead to pernicious anemia, a decrease in red blood cells that occurs when the intestines cannot properly absorb vitamin B12.