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Vitamin B12 in long COVID

Last updated on August 13, 2024, 09:07 am

VITAMIN B12

 

What is vitamin B12?

Vitamin B12 belongs to the B family of vitamins. It is sometimes referred to as cobalamin.

 

What does vitamin B12 do in the body?

Vitamin B12 is a cofactor in chemical reactions related to cell metabolism and DNA in the body. Deficiencies in vitamin B12 can, therefore, be very consequential and severe. Causes of vitamin B12 deficiency can include low dietary intake, autoimmune conditions, malabsorption, surgery, contraceptive and hormone use, pregnancy, genetic causes, or drug interactions (metformin, proton pump inhibitors, and histamine H2 receptor agonists) [[1]].

 

Symptoms of vitamin b12 deficiency include fatigue, lack of energy, nervous system issues, and psychological dysfunction [[2]]. Slow thinking, confusion, changes in memory, depression, and acute psychotic states may be psychiatric symptoms attributed to vitamin B12 deficiency [[3]].

 

How can vitamin B12 help alleviate certain Long COVID symptoms and pathophysiology? 

 

Long COVID patients should ensure they are getting sufficient vitamin B12. The vitamin B family, including vitamin B12, affects the nervous system and helps it function smoothly. Therefore, in Long COVID patients who have neurological symptoms such as “brain fog,” it is important to ensure sufficient B12 supplementation [[4]]. Vitamin B12 can also improve depressive symptoms and fatigue, which can also be part of Long COVID [[5]].

 

Research shows that Long COVID shares features with other chronic diseases such as chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) and postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS). Low vitamin B12 levels may be one common link. People with autoimmune diseases are also at risk of having vitamin B12 deficiency.

 

Vitamin B12 deficiency is linked to elevated homocysteine levels, a marker of inflammation. Elevated homocysteine can damage arteries. Given that patients with Long COVID may already have ongoing inflammation in their arteries, it is important to ensure that they have sufficient vitamin B12 to reduce any potential cardiovascular disease risk [[4]].