MediBuddy, has released a study examining nutrient deficiencies among corporate professionals aged 40–50. The study, based on data from 4,400 individuals—3,338 men and 1,059 women—highlights a significant prevalence of vitamin B12 deficiency, particularly among men, and emphasises the need for targeted health interventions.
The study found that 57.16 per cent of men exhibited insufficient or deficient levels of vitamin B12, a nutrient essential for neurological function and energy metabolism. Among women, 49.9 per cent were found to have similar deficiencies, indicating the need for dietary adjustments and supplementation.
The findings challenge common perceptions that urban men have adequate diets, suggesting that factors such as poor gut absorption, dietary choices, and metabolic stress may contribute to these deficiencies. Poor absorption of vitamin B12 can occur due to suboptimal stomach acid production, gastrointestinal disorders, or long-term medication use, including antacids and metformin. An imbalance in gut microbiota can also hinder nutrient absorption.
Dietary patterns further contribute to this trend, as natural sources of vitamin B12 are primarily found in animal-based foods such as meat, fish, dairy, and eggs. Corporate professionals who follow vegetarian or vegan diets may face a higher risk of deficiency. Even those who consume dairy and eggs may struggle to meet daily requirements without fortified foods or supplements.
Lifestyle factors, including sedentary routines, high-stress environments, erratic eating habits, alcohol consumption, and nicotine use, also play a role in depleting vitamin B12 levels. The study suggests that corporate professionals, particularly men, may require focused nutritional interventions and regular health screenings to address these concerns.
Dr Gowri Kulkarni, Head of Medical Operations at MediBuddy, stated, “Preventive care is the cornerstone of long-term health, and these findings reinforce the need for early intervention, especially for employees in high-pressure corporate environments. At MediBuddy, we are committed to empowering individuals with accessible healthcare solutions that encourage proactive wellness. Through timely screenings, digital health tracking, and expert-led guidance, we aim to shift healthcare from a reactive to a preventive approach, ensuring better long-term health outcomes.”
As India’s corporate sector continues to expand, the study underscores the importance of personalised health assessments beyond standard metrics. Regular health screenings focused on nutritional status and metabolic markers can help identify deficiencies before they develop into more serious conditions, particularly among men, who are less likely to seek preventive healthcare.
