Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Vitamin B12 (cobalamin) is an essential water-soluble vitamin involved in DNA synthesis, red blood cell formation, and neurological function. Its use in treating or supporting "wasting"—a term referring to significant, unintentional weight and muscle mass loss, often seen in chronic illnesses like HIV/AIDS, cancer, or malnutrition—is primarily based on its role in correcting specific deficiencies rather than directly reversing wasting itself. Scientifically, there is solid evidence that vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to symptoms such as anemia, fatigue, and neurological problems, all of which may contribute to secondary weight loss and muscle wasting. Supplementation with vitamin B12 is thus clearly indicated in cases where deficiency is present, and such correction can indirectly improve appetite, energy, and overall nutritional status. However, studies do not support the use of vitamin B12 supplementation to treat wasting in the absence of a documented deficiency. In conditions like HIV/AIDS or cancer-associated cachexia, vitamin B12 may be part of a broader nutritional support strategy but is not considered a primary treatment for wasting. Therefore, while the use of vitamin B12 for wasting is scientifically justified in cases of deficiency (evidence rating 2/5), it is not broadly validated as a general anti-wasting therapy.

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