Month: December 2024

Is a vitamin deficiency telling you something more serious? While vitamin B12 plays a key role in the healthy functioning of nerve and blood cells, its deficiency can sometimes indicate a deeper problem—potentially cancer. But, Can vitamin B12 deficiency be a sign of cancer? Well, though B12 deficiency is not a definitive sign, there could be a possible link. From pancreatic and gastric cancer to cancer treatments like chemotherapy, various factors can contribute to B12 deficiency. This blog explains how cancers can interrupt the body’s ability to absorb B12 and cause deficiency. Read on!

Can Vitamin B12 Deficiency Be a Sign of Cancer?

No, Vitamin B12 deficiency does not directly indicate the sign of cancer. However, a study reports that it can warn regarding the risk of certain types of cancer. Here’s how vitamin B12 deficiency can potentially indicate cancer:-

Prolonged B12 deficiency can contribute to DNA damage and affect the body’s cell-repairing ability. This can cause abnormal growth of cells, developing into cancer cells. This is the specific indication of cancer progression.

Gastrointestinal cancers like pancreatic and stomach cancer can affect the ability of the body to effectively absorb vitamin B12. The absorption process needs a healthy stomach lining to release intrinsic factors- important for vitamin b12 absorption. This consequently leads to deficiency.

Chemotherapy and radiation therapy may cause stomach lining damage, making it challenging to absorb vitamin B12. In addition, they affect the metabolism, which also leads to poor B12 absorption. Thus, contributing to deficiency.

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  Tumor Growth and Nutrient Depletion

Some tumors can use up the body’s vitamin stores. For example, the quick division of cancerous cells needs excess nutrients like vitamin B12 to survive. This, as a result, can cause deficiency, even in people who have adequate amounts of vitamin levels.

Connection Between Vitamin B12 Deficiency and Cancer 

Here is a detailed explanation of how different types of cancer are linked to a lack of vitamin B12.

Gastric cancer can interrupt the production of the “intrinsic factor”- responsible for vitamin B12 absorption. This leads to poor absorption or utilization of vitamin B12, leading to deficiency risk. Moreover, gastric cancer treatment which involves the removal of some part of the stomach can further impact B12 absorption.

Pancreatic cancer can interfere with the body’s digestive process by preventing the production of enzymes for digestion. This leads to poor B12 absorption. Chemotherapy for treating pancreatic cancer can further make it worse.

Colon cancer can adversely impact the large intestine- responsible for producing and absorbing vitamins. This can contribute to malabsorption and thus, deficiency. Treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy can also lead to B12 depletion by causing malabsorption.

Blood cancer can interfere with the production of blood cells and affect bone marrow. Both are crucial for the effective metabolism of vitamin B12. The inability of the body to manage the B12 levels due to blood cancer can lead to depletion risks, causing deficiency.

According to one research, the deficiency of vitamins is also associated with an increased risk of esophageal cancer. It leads to an impaired DNA repairing process, contributing to abnormal growth of cells, and developing cancer. 

How Cancer Causes Vitamin B12 Deficiency?

The cancerous tumors contribute to B12 depletion through the following mechanisms:

• Disruption of Absorption: Tumors prevent the body from effectively absorbing vitamin B12. This happens when cancer interrupts the normal stomach or intestine functions.

• Chronic Inflammation: Many types of cancer can contribute to prolonged inflammation. This impacts the functioning of the digestive system, leading to inappropriate B12 absorption.

• Altered Metabolism: Cancer changes the metabolic process of the body, altering nutrient requirements. In certain cases, even if the Vitamin B12 intake is sufficient, the body might be unable to absorb and use it effectively.

What Symptoms to Look For?

Vitamin B12 deficiency and cancer share some overlapping symptoms. Hence, understanding the difference between their symptoms is crucial for early medical intervention.

If you notice any of these symptoms, especially in combination, seek medical attention. The doctors may help with proper diagnostic tests to determine the actual cause and provide treatment accordingly. 

Management and Treatment Of Cancer And Vitamin B-12 Deficiency

Treatments for Vitamin B12 Deficiency:

If doctors detect vitamin B12 deficiency due to dietary factors: they recommend the following treatments:

• Balanced Diet: Asked to add vitamin B12-rich foods like eggs, fortified cereals, meat, and dairy products to diet.

• B12 Injections: Improves deficiency of B12 with injections in severe cases.

• Oral B12 supplements: Manages B12 levels in less severe cases.

• Address Underlying Conditions: Treat conditions like malabsorption or digestive issues.

Treatments for Cancer:

• Surgery: Removes tumors from the affected area to prevent it from spreading.

• Chemotherapy & Radiation Therapy: Target and destroy cancerous cells throughout the body.

• Immunotherapy Therapy: Utilizes the immune system of the body to fight off the cancer cells in case of advanced cancer cases.

• Bone Marrow Transplants: Replace infected bone marrow with healthy bone marrow in certain types of blood cancers.

Important Tips: Always maintain a balanced diet, follow a healthy lifestyle, and consider regular follow-ups with doctors to prevent the risk of vitamin B12 deficiency and cancer. 

Does Treating Vitamin B12 Deficiency Prevent Cancer?

No, treating B12 deficiency does not prevent cancer. However, maintaining optimal B12 levels supports:

A balanced diet and regular check-ups can help reduce complications that increase cancer risks.

Summing Up

We hope you understand, “Can Vitamin B12 deficiency be a sign of cancer”? Vitamin B12 deficiency isn’t a direct sign of cancer but can sometimes point to underlying health issues. By staying informed and seeking timely medical advice, you can address deficiencies early and lower health risks. 

Remember early detection saves lives, so don’t ignore persistent symptoms!

Frequently Asked Questions

Have you felt a sudden increase in energy or extreme joy or happiness as if you are “high” though you have not consumed any substance? This is a strange feeling that several people experience, making an individual wonder “Why do I feel high when I’m not”. What’s this feeling without alcohol or drug use? If you are also experiencing this, there can be tons of surprising reasons such as endorphin release, stress, sleep deprivation, and more! This blog will guide you on the possible reasons behind this curious feeling! Let’s explore!

Why Do I Feel High When I’m Not: 10 Possible Reasons

Here we have listed the surprising reasons that may make you “high” even when you’re not under the influence of any substance.

1. Endorphin Release

Endorphins are “feel-good” chemicals that the body produces in response to emotional experiences, laughter, or during physical activities (e.g., “runner’s high” after intense exercise). Research reports that the increased levels of endorphins can lead to a feeling of euphoria (extreme happiness) or pleasure. Both are similar to the effect of “high” from drugs or alcohol. 

2. Stress and Anxiety

Have you recently experienced a stressful situation? A study says that in response to stress, the body releases cortisol (stress hormone) levels. This can cause a rush in energy and excessive alertness, mimicking the effect of “high”. Moreover, anxiety can make you feel dizzy and breathe fast. All these symptoms interrupt the normal rhythms of the body, making you zoned out and feel “high”.

3. Sleep Deprivation

Lack of quality sleep can impact the chemistry of the brain, interrupting the normal function of the brain’s neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine. These hormones give the feelings of happiness and pleasure, making you feel excessively energized or lightheaded. These sensations are almost like the effects of a “drug-induced high”.

4. Mental Health Conditions

Are you dealing with a mental health issue like Depersonalization-Derealization Disorder (DPDR)? This condition makes you feel detached from the body, surroundings, and feelings, making you feel everything around is unreal. You might feel anxious or depressed, lack an emotional connection, and things might seem foggy or unfamiliar. These situations almost make you feel “high”. 

5. Dietary Factors

Foods rich in caffeine, sugar, or amino acids can temporarily increase energy levels or feelings of euphoria. These can influence your mood and how you think. Moreover, consuming foods rich in tryptophan such as eggs, chicken, fish, quinoa, or chocolate can boost dopamine and serotonin levels which, in turn, give effects similar to “high” feelings. In addition, having too many supplements can affect serotonin, a hormone associated with how you feel and perceive.

6. Hormonal Changes

Hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy or menopause can lead to sensations similar to “high”. Increased progesterone levels during pregnancy can cause too deep or quick breathing patterns. This can result in lightheadedness which may feel like you are “high”. Moreover, menopause also comes with hormonal changes leading to lower progesterone and estrogen levels. This affects mood, thinking ability, and focus, resulting in unreal feelings similar to “high”. 

7. Residual Effects of Substances

After consuming certain substances, including cannabis products like THC, you may still experience its effects even if you think it subsides. This occurs especially in cases of edibles taking a longer time to show their effects and be eliminated from the body. So, even after hours or days of having them, you may unexpectedly feel “high”. 

8. Sensory Overload

Overloaded senses with too much noise, social interaction, and bright lights may also make you feel “high”. This overstimulation of the senses can change the processes of the brain. This can create feelings of disorientation (mental confusion) or a feeling of being detached from the surroundings or reality. These sensations are similar to drug-induced “high”. 

9. Dehydration

Dehydration might not directly make you feel “high”, however, the symptoms associated with it can. When there is not enough water in the body, the blood volume decreases. This prevents the blood from taking the nutrients and oxygen to the brain and other organs, causing certain symptoms. Those symptoms include dizziness, confusion, and lightheadedness, mimicking the effects of “high”.

10. Low Carbon Dioxide Levels

When you take too deep or fast breaths during stress or panic attacks, you may end up with a “high” feeling. This happens due to the exhaling of excessive amounts of carbon dioxide that interrupt the blood’s pH level. This, in turn, causes lightheadedness, a sense of detachment from reality, or a tingling sensation which may be like “high” feelings. 

If you are feeling “high” even when you haven’t used any substance, it can be distracting or discomforting. Practicing some strategies can help you avoid feeling high and regain control over your mind and body. 

Tips to Stop Feeling High When You Are Sober

Consider these tips and regain your control over your mind and body:

• Breathe deeply: Practice deep breathing exercises such as 4-7-8 breathing to relax your mind and body and manage stress.

• Stay Hydrated: Drink a lot of water or fluids to stay well-hydrated which helps prevent dizziness.

• Eat nutritious meals: Add foods rich in healthy fats, carbs, and protein to your diet to maintain blood sugar levels.

• Reduce stimulation: Find a quiet and calming space away from bright lights and loud noises to settle up your senses.

• Move the body: Practice light exercises such as stretching, yoga, and barefoot walking to release stress and regulate the body’s chemistry.

• Practice Mindfulness: Focus on your thoughts, emotions, and breath that help prevent feelings of overstimulation or detachment.

• Rest: Get quality sleep if you are feeling low in energy due to fatigue as it prevents mental confusion and elevated mood.

• Talk It Out: Share all your feelings or concerns with your family members or friends to get clarity.

When to Consult a Healthcare Professional?

• Seek medical help, if you continuously feel “high” even when there is no substance involved and it’s interfering with your everyday activities.

• The healthcare providers or therapists help find the underlying causes such as hormonal imbalances or medical conditions. 

Summing Up

We hope our blog guided you well on the potential reasons behind your concern “Why do I feel high when I’m not? Several factors from endorphin release and hormonal fluctuations to sleep deprivation and mental health issues can be the potential culprits. They can trigger the body to produce feelings of euphoria, altered thoughts, and mental confusion. Additionally, they might make you feel anxious, depressed, or emotionally detached. All these feelings are similar to the effects of a “drug-induced “high”.

If you are frequently experiencing these feelings that are disturbing your daily activities, see a doctor for a better diagnosis and treatment. 

Frequently Asked Questions

You might think high blood sugar levels, also called hyperglycemia, is a common condition associated with diabetes, however, that’s not the case always. Even if you are nondiabetic, your blood glucose (sugar) levels can increase suddenly, leading to some surprising symptoms. From frequent urination to unexplained fatigue, the signs of hyperglycemia can affect your everyday life. Identifying all the potential high blood glucose symptoms in a nondiabetic is crucial for early medical intervention so as to prevent type 2 diabetes.

The blog will help you learn what a spike in blood sugar feels like for people without diabetes, what are the possible causes, and how to manage them. Let’s explore!

10 Alarming High Blood Glucose Symptoms in a Nondiabetic

Do you know around 38% of adult Americans have prediabetes? The symptoms associated with nondiabetic hyperglycemia (prediabetes) are the same as diabetic hyperglycemia. Those commonly include:

1. Frequent Urination

When the blood glucose (sugar) levels increase, the kidneys filter out excess glucose from the blood. This, as a result, leads to frequent urination. This happens as the body tries to get rid of extra sugar levels via urine.

2. Increased Thirst

Increased frequency of urination can cause dehydration that triggers a thirsty feeling. If the blood sugar levels stay high, the body seeks to retain hydration levels by making the individual feel thirsty.

3. Fatigue

High blood sugar levels can interrupt the ability of the body to effectively utilize the glucose for energy. This prevents the cells from receiving the fuel they require to function properly. Thus, it may lead to feelings of fatigue or tiredness. 

4. Blurred Vision

Elevated blood glucose or hyperglycemia can draw out fluid from tissues, including eye lenses. This consequently leads to blurry vision which is a temporary issue. However, it can become distressing if the blood glucose levels stay high for longer periods. 

5. Headaches

As a spike in blood sugar levels leads to dehydration due to frequent urination, it triggers headaches. Additionally, fluctuations in sugar levels can also interfere with normal brain functions. This, as a result, can contribute to headaches.

6. Difficulty Concentrating (Brain fog)

Hyperglycemia can sometimes also impact cognitive functions such as concentration. People with high blood sugar levels might not be able to efficiently process or use glucose. This can make them feel “foggy” or face challenges while focusing on daily tasks.

7. Unexplained Weight Loss

Although diabetics more commonly experience this symptom, nondiabetics with hyperglycemia may also notice weight loss. This generally occurs when the body begins to break down the fat and muscle for energy as it is unable to use glucose efficiently.

8. Increased Hunger

Despite the high levels of glucose in the blood, the body might be unable to utilize it efficiently. This can lead to increased hunger as the body seeks energy to function. It results in the feeling of constant hunger or overeating.

9. Slow Wound Healing

Elevated blood sugar levels can interrupt the ability of the body to heal infections and wounds. In addition, if the blood sugar levels remain high, it might also become more difficult for the body to repair itself. This can consequently slow down the healing times.

10. Nausea and Vomiting

In cases of extreme hyperglycemia, people might experience vomiting and nausea. These symptoms occur when the body can’t efficiently metabolize glucose, consequently leading to ketone buildup. One study reports that ketones can directly trigger the vomiting center in the brain.

What Counts as Nondiabetic Hyperglycemia?

Nondiabetic hyperglycemia is typically considered as an increased sugar than the normal level but they are not enough to be diagnosed as in the diabetic range.

Here’s the breakdown of what is counted as elevated blood sugar levels in people without diabetes:

The range between 100–125 mg/dL (fasting) or 140–199 mg/dL (2 hours after meals) is considered non-diabetic hyperglycemia. This indicates that a person is at high risk of developing type 2 diabetes which may need medical intervention or lifestyle adjustments.

7 Causes of High Blood Sugar Levels in Non-diabetics

The following factors can lead to increased blood glucose levels in people without diabetes:

1. Stress

Cortisols (stress hormones) can temporarily cause an increase in blood sugar levels.

2. Poor Diet

A diet full of refined carbs and sugar can also contribute to a short-term spike in blood glucose levels.

3. Medications

Some medications such as corticosteroids, dopamine, or norepinephrine can activate enzymes that trigger high blood sugar levels.

4. Obesity

Research shows that excess fat cells can trigger metabolic abnormalities such as “prediabetes” marked by higher blood sugar than normal but not in the diabetic range.

5. Cushing’s Syndrome

High cortisol in patients with Cushing’s syndrome can cause insulin resistance. This enables the body to use glucose effectively, resulting in increased glucose levels.

6. Genetics

A family history of nondiabetic hyperglycemia can raise the risk of developing high blood glucose. 

7. Hormonal Changes

Hormonal imbalances during PCOS or pregnancy may also cause a temporary spike in blood glucose due to insulin resistance. 

When to See a Doctor?

Seek medical attention, when you notice or feel any of the above-mentioned symptoms. Moreover, call 911 immediately, if you suddenly experience these symptoms:

8 Tips To Manage Nondiabetic Hyperglycemia

The treatment and management include medication, dietary adjustments, and lifestyle changes:

1. Medications

Healthcare providers may prescribe medicines such as metformin and insulin injections to control blood sugar.

2. Dietary Adjustments

Doctors may ask to reduce intake of refined carbs and sugary foods and choose low-glycemic foods such as whole grains, green leafy veggies, and low-fat dairy foods.

3. Increased Physical Activity

Practice exercises regularly to enhance insulin sensitivity and maintain blood sugar.

4. Hydration

Drink a lot of water to flush out extra glucose content from the body and promote kidney function.

5. Stress Management

Engage in stress-reducing techniques such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, or mindfulness to prevent stress-induced spikes in blood glucose levels.

6. Weight Management

Focus on maintaining a healthy body weight to enhance insulin sensitivity and metabolism.

7. Monitoring Blood Sugar Levels

Monitor your blood sugar levels regularly to identify and manage any potential abnormalities.

8 . Addressing Underlying Conditions

If the contributing factors to high sugar levels involve medications, infections, or hormonal imbalances, get the right treatment.

Possible Complications of Untreated nondiabetic hyperglycemia

If you leave the symptoms of nondiabetic hyperglycemia untreated, it can lead to further complications such as:

• Nerve damage (neuropathy)

• Blood vessel damage, raising heart attack and stroke risks

• Slow wound healing

• Kidney damage

• Eye problems

• Increased risks of infections

Final Thoughts

Identifying the high blood glucose symptoms in a nondiabetic is crucial to prevent further complications. From fatigue and frequent urination to increased thirst and headaches, the symptoms can impact your overall health. Hence, it’s important to monitor blood sugar levels and seek a doctor’s help to manage the possible causes.

Take action and maintain your blood sugar levels and overall well-being to avoid health risks in the future.