LUCKNOW: While it is well known that every second Indian has Vitamin B12 deficiency, a survey has indicated that over 69% adults in Lucknow are unaware about the correct source of this micronutrient which is crucial for healthy nerves.
Vitamin B intake is associated with good quality blood, skin, nails and hair besides keeping the nerves healthy.
The survey, however, indicates that 61% of the people ignored early signs of poor nerve health even when half of them admitted experiencing some of the key symptoms.
Conducted by not for profit organization, Heal Health, with the help of Hansa Research and Proctor and Gamble, the multi-centric survey covered 1,800 respondents from across 12 cities.
It aimed to gauge the awareness levels and perceptions about nerve health and to understand if people can identify nerve related discomforts.
Results revealed limited knowledge amongst the masses about nerve health. Over 73% of respondents said they relied on vegetables while 69% of respondents thought fruits were the best source of Vitamin B12.
To note, dairy products and meat are the richest source of the essential nutrient. However, experts recommend use of supplements as over 70% of the Indian population is lactose intolerance while a good majority does not consume non-vegetarian food.
Stating that September marks the National Nutrition Month, experts pointed out sub-optimal Vitamin B intake also impacts overall health as the body is not able to perform important functions.
“Deficiency is common in people who do not take adequate amounts of dairy products or non-vegetarian food. Adequate amount of Vitamin B12 and its supplements must be taken regularly as part of a well-balanced and nutritious diet,” said Dr Sanjay Kalra, former president, Endocrine Society of India.
Medical literature suggests that it is important to nourish one’s nerves to avert medical condition called peripheral neuropathy which adversely affects quality of life. Honorary General Secretary, Association of Physicians of India (API), Dr Mangesh Tiwaskar said that lack of awareness led to diagnosis of complications in later stages. “Several people have to undergo amputation (as in case of diabetic foot) as a price of their ignorance,” he said.
