[2] For this reason, elevated serum homocysteine over 15 micromol/L and methylmalonic acid (MMA) over 0.271 micromol/L are considered better indicators of B 12 deficiency, rather than relying only on the concentration of B 12 in blood
Early diagnosis and prompt treatment prevents the development of neurological complications which are usually irreversible
deficiency (more common in those following plant-based diets or with malabsorption) can cause palpitations and fatigue, primarily through anaemia [2] [3] Vitamin D some observational studies have suggested a possible association between low vitamin D and cardiac arrhythmias, though the evidence remains preliminary and no causal link has been established [20] [21] Calcium severe hypocalcaemia can affect cardiac muscle function, though this is rarely caused by dietary restriction alone and usually reflects an underlying medical condition If you are concerned about nutritional deficiencies, your GP can arrange appropriate blood tests, which may include a full blood count (FBC), ferritin, vitamin B12 and folate, and urea and electrolytes (U&Es), with magnesium and calcium checked if clinically indicated
This procedure typically takes place in an outpatient setting, requiring minimal downtime and offering significant benefits
