Intrinsic factor

Definition

Intrinsic factor is a glycoprotein produced by the parietal cells of the stomach, essential for the absorption of vitamin B12 in the intestines. Its presence is crucial for maintaining adequate levels of vitamin B12, which is vital for red blood cell production and neurological function. A deficiency in intrinsic factor can lead to pernicious anemia and neurological disorders, particularly in older adults.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Intrinsic factor is primarily produced in the stomach and is necessary for vitamin B12 absorption in the small intestine.
2. Aging can lead to atrophic gastritis, where parietal cells are damaged, reducing intrinsic factor production and increasing the risk of vitamin B12 deficiency.
3. Without sufficient intrinsic factor, individuals may experience symptoms like weakness, fatigue, memory problems, and nerve damage due to low vitamin B12 levels.
4. Pernicious anemia is particularly common in older adults who may have impaired gastric function affecting intrinsic factor secretion.
5. Dietary sources of vitamin B12 include animal products like meat, dairy, and eggs; however, without intrinsic factor, even adequate intake may not prevent deficiency.

Review Questions

• How does intrinsic factor influence the nutritional status of older adults?
  • Intrinsic factor plays a significant role in the nutritional status of older adults by facilitating the absorption of vitamin B12. As people age, changes such as atrophic gastritis can lead to decreased production of intrinsic factor, resulting in potential vitamin B12 deficiency. This deficiency can lead to symptoms like fatigue and cognitive decline, impacting overall health and quality of life. Therefore, understanding the connection between intrinsic factor and vitamin B12 is crucial for managing nutrition in older populations.
• Discuss the implications of intrinsic factor deficiency on an individual's health outcomes over time.
  • Deficiency of intrinsic factor can have serious long-term health implications, primarily leading to pernicious anemia. This condition arises from inadequate absorption of vitamin B12, causing symptoms such as severe fatigue, weakness, and neurological issues like tingling or numbness. Over time, untreated pernicious anemia can lead to irreversible nerve damage and cognitive decline. Recognizing intrinsic factor's role is vital for early diagnosis and intervention to prevent these adverse health outcomes.
• Evaluate the role of intrinsic factor in maintaining optimal health across different life stages and its relation to age-related changes.
  • Intrinsic factor is essential for maintaining optimal health throughout life by ensuring proper absorption of vitamin B12. In younger individuals, adequate intrinsic factor supports healthy red blood cell formation and neurological function. However, as people age, changes such as gastric atrophy can impair intrinsic factor production, increasing the risk of vitamin B12 deficiency. This highlights the need for regular monitoring and potential supplementation of vitamin B12 in older adults to mitigate age-related health risks associated with low levels due to insufficient intrinsic factor.

Related terms

Vitamin B12: A water-soluble vitamin that is important for nerve function, DNA synthesis, and red blood cell formation, often requiring intrinsic factor for its absorption.

Pernicious Anemia: A type of anemia resulting from the inability to absorb vitamin B12 due to a lack of intrinsic factor, leading to fatigue and other health issues.

Parietal Cells: Cells located in the lining of the stomach that secrete hydrochloric acid and intrinsic factor, playing a crucial role in digestion and nutrient absorption.