Deficiency of which vitamin is likely to contribute to nerve degeneration?

Vitamin B12 plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy nerve cells and the production of DNA and red blood cells. A deficiency in this vitamin can lead to nerve degeneration, which may manifest as numbness, tingling, and balance issues due to its impact on the myelin sheath that insulates nerve fibers. Without sufficient Vitamin B12, the body struggles to produce myelin effectively, leading to neurological damage and increased risk of nerve disorders.

The significance of Vitamin B12 in nerve health is underscored by its involvement in critical metabolic processes within nerve tissues. This vitamin is essential for the proper functioning of neural pathways, and prolonged deficiency can lead to irreversible conditions affecting the nervous system.

In contrast, while other vitamins like Vitamin E also play roles in nerve health and antioxidant protection, it is the specific functions of Vitamin B12 in maintaining myelin sheath integrity and supporting nerve structure that make it particularly important in preventing nerve degeneration.