American Association of Family and Consumer Sciences (AAFCS) Practice Test

What is a potential consequence of severe vitamin B12 deficiency?

1. Poor digestion

2. Megaloblastic anemia

3. Elevated blood pressure

4. Diabetes

The correct answer is: Megaloblastic anemia

A potential consequence of severe vitamin B12 deficiency is megaloblastic anemia. This condition occurs because vitamin B12 is crucial for the proper formation and maturation of red blood cells in the body. When there is a deficiency in vitamin B12, the production of red blood cells is disrupted, leading to the formation of large and immature red blood cells that cannot function effectively. This results in anemia, which is characterized by fatigue, weakness, and pale skin due to the inadequate number of healthy red blood cells to transport oxygen throughout the body. Megaloblastic anemia specifically arises when there is not enough vitamin B12 available, which is necessary for the synthesis of DNA during cell division. Consequently, red blood cell production is hindered, and this type of anemia is often accompanied by neurological symptoms as well, reflecting vitamin B12's role in the nervous system. The other options mentioned, such as poor digestion, elevated blood pressure, and diabetes, are not directly linked as primary consequences of severe vitamin B12 deficiency, but rather can result from other nutritional deficiencies or health conditions. Understanding the specific consequences of vitamin B12 deficiency helps in determining appropriate dietary sources and supplementation to prevent such deficiencies.