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Vitamin B12 is essential for the proper functioning of our body, especially for the production of red blood cells and the proper function of the nervous system. As we age, our body may have difficulty utilizing vitamin B12, which can lead to a range of health problems. This vitamin is necessary for everyday life and should be consumed in sufficient amounts. If you have type 2 diabetes or take medication for heartburn, your body may have difficulty adequately absorbing vitamin B12.
If a vitamin B12 deficiency is not addressed, serious health problems can arise. In this article we will look at 9 symptoms that may indicate you are suffering from a vitamin B12 deficiency, and what consequences it can have for your health.
1. Fatigue, even if you’ve slept enough
One of the first signs of a vitamin B12 deficiency is chronic fatigue. Even if you slept 8 hours, you still feel exhausted and without energy. This vitamin is key to the production of red blood cells, which carry oxygen to all parts of the body. Without sufficient oxygen we feel tired.
2. Muscle weakness
If your body does not get enough oxygen, the muscles begin to weaken. You may feel that even lifting a glass of water can be incredibly exhausting. Muscle weakness is another manifestation of a vitamin B12 deficiency, because this vitamin affects the functioning of muscles and the nervous system.
3. Tingling and numbness
Do you feel tingling in your body, as if a thousand needles were pricking you? This symptom is caused by a vitamin B12 deficiency, which affects nerve cells. Without sufficient vitamin B12, the nerves do not receive the oxygen they need and cannot perform their function properly.
4. Forgetfulness and confusion
You may start forgetting everyday things or mixing up common tasks, for example putting your keys in the fridge. This condition may be the result of a vitamin B12 deficiency, which affects brain function. Cognitive problems are not uncommon if you have a deficiency of this important vitamin. Fortunately, this is a condition that can be detected with a blood test.
5. Dizziness during physical exertion
A feeling of dizziness, especially when walking up stairs or during heavier physical activity, can be another warning sign of a vitamin B12 deficiency. This vitamin is essential for proper circulation of oxygen in the body, and if we don’t have enough of it, dizziness and other circulation-related problems can begin to appear.
6. Pale skin
If you have pale skin, it may also be a symptom of a vitamin B12 deficiency. This vitamin helps red blood cells function properly. Without enough B12, red blood cells are more fragile, can break down more easily and release bilirubin, which causes paleness of the skin.
7. Red tongue and burning in the mouth
If you look in the mirror and find that your tongue is red or you feel burning on the tongue and a diminished sense of taste, it may be another sign of low vitamin B12 levels. This condition is known as glossitis, which is an inflammation of the tongue that can be caused by a deficiency of this vitamin.
8. Emotional lability
If you often feel nervous, irritable or feel that your emotions are out of control, it may be due to a vitamin B12 deficiency. This vitamin affects our nervous system and can cause emotional outbursts or frequent mood changes.
9. Eye problems and visual disturbances
Long-term vitamin B12 deficiency can even lead to vision problems. Visual impairments include sensitivity to light, double vision and in some cases flashes of light. If you notice any changes in your vision, it is important to visit an ophthalmologist to rule out the possibility of a serious problem.
If you notice any of these symptoms, it is advisable to visit your doctor as soon as possible and have blood tests done to check your vitamin B12 level. This vitamin is essential for our health and its deficiency can have serious consequences.
How to increase your vitamin B12 intake?
The best way to supplement vitamin B12 is a diet rich in this vitamin. Main sources include meat, fish, eggs, dairy products and fortified foods. In case you have trouble absorbing it, your doctor may recommend supplements.
