B vitamins are labeled “essential” for a reason: your body relies on them for proper functioning. Since your body cannot produce them independently, you must obtain them from your diet or supplements daily. Inadequate intake can lead to significant health issues, including low blood pressure.
Understanding B Vitamins
The B vitamins serve crucial roles in the body, with vitamin B12 (cobalamin) and B9 (folate) being particularly significant, as highlighted by the Mayo Clinic. Vitamin B12, abundant in meat, fish, and dairy, contributes to cell metabolism, red blood cell formation, nerve function, and DNA production. On the other hand, folate, present in various fruits, vegetables, peas, and nuts, is vital for fetal growth and development during early pregnancy, among other functions, according to Mayo.
A deficiency in these vitamins not only deprives the body of their benefits but also leads to health issues. Low blood pressure is one of the common medical conditions associated with this deficiency, as noted by the American Heart Association (AHA).
The Blood Pressure Connection
A deficiency in vitamin B12 or folate increases the risk of developing anemia, a condition characterized by insufficient red blood cell production, as outlined by the AHA. Anemia results in decreased blood volume, consequently leading to low blood pressure. Dr. Ami Beniaminovitz, a board-certified cardiologist at Manhattan Cardiology in New York City, emphasizes another direct effect of vitamin B12 deficiency on blood pressure. He explains that vitamin B12 deficiency can harm the autonomic nervous system, responsible for regulating blood pressure, especially during posture changes. Damage to this system or its decreased responsiveness can cause orthostatic hypotension—a dangerous drop in blood pressure upon standing.
According to the Mayo Clinic, low blood pressure can manifest in various symptoms such as nausea, difficulty concentrating, fatigue, blurred vision, dizziness, or fainting. Severe cases of low blood pressure may result in confusion, cold and clammy skin, a weak or rapid heartbeat, or shallow breathing. The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute defines low blood pressure as a systolic (top number) of 90 millimeters of mercury or lower over a diastolic (bottom number) of 60 or lower.
What You Need to Do
If you’re experiencing low blood pressure due to a folate or vitamin B deficiency, increasing your intake of these nutrients through diet is often the first step, advises the Mayo Clinic. However, obtaining sufficient vitamin B12 can be challenging for vegans or vegetarians since it’s primarily found in animal proteins. The American College of Cardiology suggests that individuals following plant-based diets may need a supplement to meet their daily vitamin B12 requirements.
Even with a diet rich in vitamin B12 foods, a deficiency can still occur if your body struggles to absorb the vitamin, explains the ACC. This absorption issue may arise from conditions like celiac or Crohn’s disease, prior stomach surgeries, or pernicious anemia, a condition hindering vitamin B12 absorption.
Dr. Beniaminovitz emphasizes the importance of addressing the underlying cause of vitamin B12 deficiency. For vegans or vegetarians, a B12 supplement may suffice, while non-vegetarians can incorporate vitamin B12-rich foods such as poultry, meat, fish, and dairy. However, some individuals may require injections or nasal sprays due to absorption issues. Consulting with a healthcare provider is essential to determine the most suitable treatment.
To address a folate deficiency, incorporating folate-rich foods like spinach, avocados, oranges, and beans into your diet is beneficial. Additionally, pregnant women or those planning pregnancy may benefit from supplemental folate, typically included in prenatal vitamins, due to its crucial role in fetal development.