Vitamin B12 Deficiency and Fertility

Fertility problems are common in both men and women. The majority of couples find it increasingly difficult to conceive. One of the major causes of fertility problems or being unable to conceive is a lack of Vitamin B12 in the body. Researchers suggest that low levels of vitamin B12 affect fertility in both men and women. If you have been trying to get pregnant for a long time now with no success, then one of the reasons could be a lack of vitamin B12 in your body (1). Find out how Vitamin B12 affects your fertility and what you can do to get pregnant soon.

What Is Vitamin B12?

Vitamin B12 is a water-soluble vitamin that helps the brain and nervous system function properly. It’s the largest vitamin B and is vital for metabolising body cells. Besides, it plays a major role in producing the genetic components of the DNA and RNA of the egg and sperm.

Importance of Vitamin B12 in Fertility

Vitamin B12 is essential for maintaining reproductive health and enhancing fertility in both men and women. This vital nutrient supports DNA synthesis, red blood cell formation, and nerve health, all contributing to a healthy reproductive system.

The benefits of Vitamin B12 for fertility include improved sperm quality and motility in men, which increases the chances of successful conception. In women, adequate B12 levels help regulate ovulation and support a healthy pregnancy, reducing the risk of birth defects. Ensuring sufficient Vitamin B12 intake is therefore crucial for those looking to optimise their fertility and overall reproductive well-being.

Can Vitamin B12 Deficiency Cause Infertility?

Deficiency of Vitamin B12 can affect the fertility of both men and women. When your body lacks B12, it can result in severe consequences, such as weakness, memory loss, infertility, anaemia, and neurological or psychiatric problems (2). Here is how Vitamin B12 deficiency affects both men and women.

1. In Men

Vitamin B12 for male fertility plays a significant role in the generation and maturation of the sperm. Men suffering from fertility issues should consider consuming foods rich in Vitamin B12 to meet their body’s requirement of Vitamin B12. A deficiency of this vitamin may negatively affect the sperm count or lead to the following issues (4):

• Low sperm count
• DNA damage in sperm cells
• Low motility of sperm
• Loss of libido
• Premature ejaculation

2. In Women

For a woman with a deficiency in Vitamin B12, trying to conceive is difficult. Even if a woman with Vitamin B12 deficiency gets pregnant, the chances of foetal loss are higher (3). The lack of B12 possibly interferes with reproduction and contributes to the following:

• Abnormal ovulation
• Disruption in normal cell division
• Impaired development of the egg
• Difficulty implanting the fertilised ovum in the uttering lining

Now that you’re aware of the potential problems of Vitamin B12 deficiency, it’s clear why you should ensure you’re getting enough of this vital nutrient.

How to Include Vitamin B12 in Your Diet to Get Pregnant?

There is no need to panic if your body lacks Vitamin B12. You can always consult your doctor and try to fuel your body with B12-rich foods in your diet or take a few supplements.

1. Vitamin B12-Rich Foods

Vitamin B12 can be found in animal-based foods. Here are some excellent sources of vitamin B12:

• Salmon
• Beef Liver
• Sirloin Beef
• Molluscs (clams, oysters, mussels)
• Yoghurt
• Milk
• Eggs
• Chicken
• Fortified breakfast cereals
• Haddock
• Tuna

2. Vitamin B12 Supplements

The two forms of Vitamin B12 that exist in an active state in the body are methylcobalamin and adenosylcobalamin. Cyanocobalamin, commonly found in the Centrum vitamins, needs to be converted to either of the two active forms in the body. The safest and recommended form of Vitamin B12 is methylcobalamin, as it needs no further conversion to be absorbed in the body.

It is easily available at pharmacies and food stores and can be obtained in pills, sublingual tablets, nasal sprays, liquids, and transdermal patches.

FAQs

1. How does age affect Vitamin B12 absorption?

As people age, their ability to absorb Vitamin B12 from food decreases, which can increase the risk of deficiency. This is often due to decreased stomach acid production or other digestive changes (6).

2. What is the recommended daily intake of Vitamin B12 for enhancing fertility?

The recommended daily intake of Vitamin B12 for adults is 2.4 mcg (5). Ensuring this intake is met through diet or supplements is essential to enhance fertility. Consulting a healthcare provider can help determine the proper dosage for individual needs.

Remember, you’re not alone in your fertility journey. Vitamin B12 deficiency and infertility are closely linked, affecting reproductive health significantly. Vitamin B12, with its vital role in preparing your body for conception and supporting a healthy pregnancy, is best managed with the guidance of a healthcare professional. By consulting your doctor about your vitamin B12 levels and taking necessary steps if found deficient, you can feel cared for and supported in your fertility journey.

References/Resources:

1. Vitamin B12 or folate deficiency anaemia- Complications; NHS; https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/vitamin-b12-or-folate-deficiency-anaemia/complications/#

2. Vitamin B12 or folate deficiency anaemia- Symptoms; NHS; https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/vitamin-b12-or-folate-deficiency-anaemia/symptoms/

3. Bennett. M; Vitamin B12 deficiency, infertility and recurrent fetal loss; PubMed; https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11304860/

4. Santra. P. K, Bandyopadhyay. D, Biswas. R. K, Choudhury. J. R; Evaluation of Serum Vitamin B12 and Vitamin D Levels in Infertile Males with Suboptimal Semen ParametersA Pilot Study from Eastern India; Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research; https://www.jcdr.net/articles/PDF/17371/59268_CE(Vi)_PF1(SC_SS)_PFA(SS)_PB(SC_SS)_PN(SS).pdf

5. Vitamin B12; National Institutes of Health; https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminB12-HealthProfessional/

6. Chance of B12 deficiency increases as people age; UCLA Health; https://www.uclahealth.org/news/article/chance-of-b12-deficiency-increases-as-people-age#

Also Read: 

Feng Shui for Fertility
Does Cinnamon Boost Fertility?
Essential Vitamins to Boost Fertility
Natural Ways to Increase Fertility in Men and Women
Drinking Red Raspberry Leaf Tea To Improve Fertility

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