Evidence supporting the use of: Vitamin B12
For the health condition: Anorexia

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Vitamin B12 is used in the support and treatment of anorexia, particularly anorexia nervosa, due to the high risk of nutritional deficiencies in affected individuals. Scientific evidence indicates that people with anorexia often present with various micronutrient deficiencies, including vitamin B12, due to prolonged restriction of food intake or malabsorption related to gastrointestinal changes. B12 deficiency can lead to neurological and hematological problems such as anemia, fatigue, neuropathy, and cognitive disturbances, which can further complicate the clinical picture of anorexia.

While there is no robust evidence that vitamin B12 directly treats the core psychological or behavioral aspects of anorexia nervosa, its supplementation is justified in individuals who are found to be deficient. Several clinical guidelines for the management of eating disorders recommend screening for and correcting micronutrient deficiencies, including B12, as part of comprehensive medical care. Studies and case reports have documented improvement in anemia and neurological symptoms with B12 supplementation in this population.

However, vitamin B12 is not a primary or standalone treatment for anorexia itself; its role is supportive and targeted at addressing secondary complications. Evidence for its use is moderate (rated 3), largely based on clinical observation and standard medical practice rather than large randomized controlled trials specific to anorexia nervosa populations. In summary, B12 supplementation is scientifically justified in anorexic patients with proven deficiency, but not as a direct treatment for the underlying eating disorder.

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