Intrinsic factor is a glycoprotein secreted by parietal (humans) or chief (rodents) cells of the gastric mucosa. In humans, it has an important role in the absorption of vitamin B12 (cobalamin) in the intestine, and failure to produce or utilize intrinsic factor results in the condition pernicious anemia.

The inability to make intrinsic factor may be caused by several things, such as: Chronic gastritis. Surgery to remove all or part of the stomach (gastrectomy) An autoimmune condition, where the body attacks its own tissues.

Lack of intrinsic factor. It is needed to absorb vitamin B12. This type of B12 deficiency anemia is called pernicious anemia.

Pernicious anemia is one cause of vitamin B-12 deficiency anemia. It’s thought mainly to be caused by an autoimmune process that makes a person unable to produce a substance in the stomach called intrinsic factor. This substance is needed to absorb dietary vitamin B-12 in the small intestine.

A response usually is seen within 48 to 72 hours, with brisk production of new red blood cells. Once B12 reserves reach normal levels, injections of vitamin B12 will be needed every one to three months to prevent symptoms from returning.

“It contains high amounts of vitamin B6 and B12, as well as magnesium and potassium.

You may need to take vitamin B-12 separately from the above drugs and supplements — say, one in the morning and one at night — so you can get the full dose of vitamin B-12. Don’t take vitamin B-12 supplements if you have sensitivities or allergies to vitamin B-12, cobalt, and any other ingredients.

A. Low B12 can cause anemia and fatigue. For many people with low B12 levels, a daily supplement in the form of a pill is as effective as taking a monthly muscle injection.

Vitamin B12 Intakes and Status For children aged 2–19, mean daily intakes of vitamin B12 from food range from 3.76 mcg to 4.55 mcg [31]. According to an analysis of NHANES data from 2015–2016, people of low socioeconomic status, women, and non-Hispanic Blacks are most likely to have low vitamin B12 intakes [32].

Recommended Vitamin B12 Dosage for Seniors In general, experts recommend 2.5 micrograms of vitamin B12 per day for people over the age of 14. You can get these amounts from taking dietary supplements like multivitamins, B12 supplementation including sublingual tablets, or by eating certain foods rich in vitamin B12.

Vitamin B12 deficiency is common among the elderly. Elderly people are particularly at risk of vitamin B12 deficiency because of the high prevalence of atrophic gastritis-associated food-cobalamin (vitamin B12) malabsorption, and the increasing prevalence of pernicious anaemia with advancing age.

Vitamin B12 B12 is important for creating red blood cells and DNA, and for maintaining healthy nerve function. “Getting enough B12 is a challenge for older people because they can’t absorb it from food as well as younger people,” says Tucker. “Even if your diet contains enough, you may be falling short.”

You can change your diet to include vitamin B12-fortified grains, a supplement or B12 injections, or a high-dose oral vitamin B12 if you are deficient. Older adults who have a vitamin B12 deficiency will likely have to take a daily B12 supplement or a multivitamin that contains B12.

Regular physical activity can strengthen your immune system and help your body fight off infections and viruses. Aim for at least 30 minutes of physical activity for three days a week. This can include walking, biking, yoga, swimming, or other low impact workouts.

Vitamin D Recommendations According to the report, children older than 1 years old and adults up to 70 years of age are recommended to consume 600 IU of vitamin D daily and adults greater than 70 years of age are recommended to consume 800 IU of vitamin D daily [40].

Unless there is a serious lack of intake for certain vitamins, as determined by a doctor, older adults shouldn’t need to take multivitamins. Minor changes in diet are generally enough to cover the dietary needs of the elderly.

Healthline’s picks of the best multivitamins for women over 50

• MegaFood Multi for Women 55+
• Thorne Women’s Multi 50+
• Garden of Life mykind Organics Women’s 40+
• Pure Encapsulations Longevity Nutrients.
• Seeking Health Optimal Multivitamin.
• Designs for Health Complete Multi.
• SmartyPants Masters Complete Women 50+ Gummy.

Top 5 Supplements for Optimal Health

• Multivitamin. A good quality multivitamin is one of the most important supplements for optimal health.
• Fish Oil. Fish oil supplements provide the body with essential omega-3 fatty acids, which are important for regulating inflammation.
• Magnesium.
• Vitamin D.
• Probiotics.