Supplements for Anemia
Older adults may need supplements. Up to one-third of older adults produce inadequate amounts of stomach acid and can no longer properly absorb B12 from food. People over 50 may have to meet their B12 need by consuming food fortified with B12 or by taking a supple’ ment containing B12. Vitamin B12 is found only in animal products and strict vegetarians are at risk and should consume fortified foods and/or take a supplement. Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) interferes with B12 metabolism and people who abuse this substance in search of a “high” have shown signs of B12 deficiency, which were reversed when supplements were administered.
