Which deficiency can cause diarrhea and weight loss?

Which deficiency can cause diarrhea and weight loss?

• A. Iron deficiency
• B. Vitamin B12 deficiency
• C. Calcium deficiency
• D. Magnesium deficiency

Answer: (B)

Vitamin B12 deficiency can cause diarrhea and weight loss because B12 is essential for DNA synthesis and the maintenance of rapidly renewing tissues, especially the lining of the gut and the production of red blood cells. When B12 is lacking, the gut mucosa can become unhealthy and less able to absorb nutrients, leading to diarrhea and weight loss. Absorption of B12 depends on intrinsic factor and occurs in the terminal ileum, so conditions that disrupt this pathway (such as pernicious anemia or ileal disease) readily lead to deficiency and its GI symptoms. In contrast, iron deficiency more commonly causes fatigue and anemia, calcium deficiency mainly affects bones and muscle function, and magnesium deficiency tends to produce neuromuscular symptoms rather than diarrhea and weight loss.

Vitamin B12 deficiency can cause diarrhea and weight loss because B12 is essential for DNA synthesis and the maintenance of rapidly renewing tissues, especially the lining of the gut and the production of red blood cells. When B12 is lacking, the gut mucosa can become unhealthy and less able to absorb nutrients, leading to diarrhea and weight loss. Absorption of B12 depends on intrinsic factor and occurs in the terminal ileum, so conditions that disrupt this pathway (such as pernicious anemia or ileal disease) readily lead to deficiency and its GI symptoms. In contrast, iron deficiency more commonly causes fatigue and anemia, calcium deficiency mainly affects bones and muscle function, and magnesium deficiency tends to produce neuromuscular symptoms rather than diarrhea and weight loss.