Some cases may also be helped by treating the underlying cause. Other cases may require ongoing supplementation as the underlying cause is not curable. Vitamin B12 deficiency is common. It is estimated to occur in about 6% of those under the age of 60 and 20% of those over the age of 60. Rates may be as high as 80% in parts of Africa and Asia.
Halva. Halva refers to many types of dense, sweet confections, served across the Middle East, South Asia, Central Asia, West Asia, North Africa, the Horn of Africa, the Balkans, Eastern Europe, Malta and the Jewish world.
A sesame-based version of halva is the most familiar in the U.S., arriving in the early 20th century along with a wave of Jewish immigrants. This form of halvah is very simple to make, consisting primarily of tahini -- ground sesame butter -- and sugar or honey.