Before we look at the main symptoms of vitamin b12 deficiency, let’s first look at what is vitamin b12 and why we need it.
What is vitamin B12?
Vitamin B12 is an essential vitamin that plays an important role in the synthesis of red blood cells and DNA. It is also important for the normal functioning of the nervous system.
What causes vitamin b12 deficiency?
Vitamin B12 deficiency occurs because of two main reasons.
The body does not make vitamin B12. We get our vitamin b12 from our diet. It is present mainly in animal-based products so those following a vegan or strict vegetarian diet are more likely to be deficient in vitamin b12.
Secondly, some people are not able to absorb vitamin b12 from the food they consume due to either some health conditions of the digestive system or because of some types of medicines which can reduce the absorption of vitamin b12.
7 signs and symptoms of vitamin b12 deficiency
These are some of the most common symptoms of vitamin b12 deficiency.
Tiredness
Those suffering from vitamin b12 deficiency can experience extreme tiredness. Some people may also feel that they lack energy.
This is thought to be linked with reduced numbers/function of the red blood cells to carry oxygen which is required for the normal functioning of the body.
Pale Skin
One possible sign of vitamin b12 deficiency is pale skin. This is thought to be due to anaemia that can occur as a result of vitamin b12 deficiency.
Mental fog
Vitamin b12 is important for the normal function of the nerves. Those suffering from a vitamin b12 deficiency can experience mental fog. This includes a reduction in the ability to concentrate or focus on a task or activity.
Visual disturbances
People with low levels of vitamin b12 can experience visual disturbances. This is thought to be linked with the changes in the way the nerves function during vitamin b12 deficiency.
Pins and needles
The sensation of pins and needles, also known as paresthesia, in some limbs of the body could also be due to the deficiency of vitamin b12. Particularly, pins and needles in hands and feet.
Changes in movement and balancing
Vitamin B12 deficiency is also linked with poor coordination so a person suffering from vitamin b12 can have difficulty with balance and walking. These come under the neurological symptoms of vitamin b12 deficiency.
Changes in mood
Vitamin B12 plays an important role in the normal function of the nervous system. Those who are deficient in vitamin b12 could experience changes in mood and suffer from other conditions such as depression.
If you follow a vegan or vegetarian diet, you are more likely to be deficient in vitamin b12. Read more about the best food sources of vitamin b12 and the available supplements.
You can find your nearest vitamin b12 injection clinic by searching on our website.