A lack of vitamin B12 is not something to be taken lightly.
Vitamin B12 is extremely essential for the healthy functioning of our body. Besides helping in the formation of red blood cells and DNA, it also plays a significant role in developing brain and nerve cells. Eating the right food and choosing the right diet is very crucial to good health.
What is vitamin B12 deficiency?
Vitamin B12 deficiency among people is more common than you think. At least 47% of the Indian population suffers from low B12 levels in the body. Your body doesn’t make vitamin B12, you must get it from animal-based foods or supplements. Symptoms include extreme fatigue, mood problems, skin changes to more severe illnesses such as stomach problems, memory problems, etc.
Vitamin B12 deficiency-related neurological symptoms
If left untreated, vitamin B12 deficiency can take a severe tone, leading to neurological problems. This means low levels of B12 in the body can affect the brain and the nerve functions. According to the BMJ, severe Vitamin B12 deficiencies can lead to “permanent neurologic damage”.
Potentially irreversible foot sign
Vitamin B12 deficiency can cause numbness and tingling of the hands and feet, which could be difficult to reverse. Other neurological symptoms include difficulty in walking, memory loss, disorientation and dementia. The progression of neurologic complications is generally gradual, but may not be reversed with treatment.
The symptoms of B12 insufficiency extend beyond these, so keep an eye out for them.
The UK’s National Health Services (NHS) lists down certain symptoms associated with vitamin B12 deficiency.
– A pale yellow tinge to your skin.
– A sore and red tongue (glossitis)
– A mouth ulcers
– Changes in the way that you walk and move around.
– Disturbed vision.
– Irritability and depression
Take a test and see how you stack up
People who are older adults, children, vegans, strict vegetarians, and those with diabetes are at a greater risk of developing vitamin B12 deficiency. The best way to diagnose this is through a blood test. Do not wait for the symptoms to worsen and visit a healthcare provider as and when you realise that they are persistent.
Tips for boosting your body’s B12 levels.
The human body is not capable of producing vitamin B12 on its own. It is possible to obtain it by consuming particular foods that are rich in B12 content. As a result, the following are some of the finest sources of vitamin B12:
– Milk
– Eggs
– Yogurt
– Fatty fishes
– Red meat
– Clams
– Fortified cereal
