Assessment of Plasma Vitamin B12 and Folic Acid During Postmenopausal Period

Abstract

Objective
 With increasing age and hormonal changes in life of women there is change in levels of micronutrients like vitamin B12 and folic acid. Very little data is available on the association between the basal levels of micronutrients such as VitB12, folic acid in pre and post menopausal women. Presence of an association will throw light on the role of micronutrients in prevention of CVS diseases in menopausal women. This would reinforce the role of micronutrients as a cheap viable option in the prevention of CVD in menopausal women.
 Method
 Plasma vitamin B12 and folic acid level were measured by radioimmunoassay in 60 pre and postmenopausal women.
 Results
 Vitamin B12 and folic acid concentrations were statistically significantly lower in postmenopausal group when compared to premenopausal group. (p value <0.005)
 Conclusion
 This study has provided baseline levels of folic acid and vitamin B12 with their association with menopause. This may be helpful for planning supplementation studies of the micronutrients.