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Statistics show that almost every fourth person has a vitamin B12 deficiency.
In this article we will describe the symptoms of this vitamin deficiency and also its causes, which may not necessarily be related to a lack in the diet.
In addition, we will tell you which groups of people are most at risk, and finally offer some advice on how to easily regulate vitamin B12 levels in the body.
What is vitamin B12?
Vitamin B12 is sometimes also called the “energy vitamin”. If you want to have enough energy every day and in the afternoon, you need this vitamin.
Some athletes even artificially increase it to boost performance.
It is sometimes considered a miraculous “weight loss remedy” and is used by well-known slimming clinics where it is administered to clients by injection. This is because it significantly supports metabolism, which is responsible for accelerated fat burning.
However, vitamin B12 does not provide energy directly, but acts as a catalyst for other biochemical processes in the body.
For example, if you have been diagnosed with metabolic anemia (you often feel tired and weak), then even one extra dose of vitamin B12 will cause a sudden rush of energy.
Vitamin B12 is also responsible for the formation of red blood cells and the transport of oxygen in the body.
Functions of vitamin B12 in the body
This vitamin also has a number of other important functions in the body. Here are at least a few of the most important ones mentioned by the well-known American doctor Dr. Mercola:
- secretion of adrenal hormones
- blood circulation
- healthy nervous system
- proper digestion
- absorption of iron into the blood
- metabolism of fats and sugars
- formation and growth of nerve cells
- healthy reproductive system in women
- Symptoms of vitamin B2 deficiency – page 2
- Symptoms of vitamin B2 deficiency
1. Inability to keep eyelids open.
This is because there is a lack of oxygen in the blood, and therefore energy for the muscles. It first manifests in the fine eye muscles.
2. Sensations of tingling, numbness or pins and needles in the limbs.
This is a sign of nerve damage due to low vitamin B12 levels.
3. Memory loss, forgetfulness.
This mainly concerns young people who are too young to be attributed with dementia.
4. Feeling chilled or dizzy
It is again a sign of poor oxygenation of the blood.
5. Yellowish skin due to degradation of red blood cells
The skin also gets damaged and tears easily, because with a lack of vitamin B12 the body is not able to produce strong cells and tissues.
6. Smooth tongue
Smooth tongue due to the loss of epithelial cells that are responsible for recognizing tastes. This is often associated with strange tastes in the mouth when eating.
7. Feelings of anxiety
Feelings of anxiety and sadness are also symptoms of a possible vitamin B12 deficiency, because it is responsible for producing “feel-good substances” such as serotonin and dopamine.
8. Vision problems due to damage to the optic nerve.
If you see double, blurred images or shadows, you should find out whether you have low vitamin B12 levels in your blood.
Risk groups of people prone to vitamin B12 deficiency
Some foods are rich in vitamin B12, but sometimes their consumption may not be enough to maintain a healthy level of this vitamin in the blood.
Here are the groups of people who should seriously consider regularly supplementing vitamin B12 in the form of dietary supplements:
People over 60 who have problems with stomach acid or digestion
patients with autoimmune diseases such as celiac disease or Crohn’s disease
vegans and vegetarians who do not eat meat
diabetics taking metformin (this medication affects the absorption of vitamin B12)
Foods high in vitamin B12
Plants do not need vitamin B12 for their metabolism, so they do not produce it.
Vitamin B12 can therefore be obtained mainly from animal-derived foods or from foods fortified with this vitamin.
Here are some examples of such foods
- seafood – sardines, salmon, tuna, cod, shrimp, oysters
- meat – beef, pork, chicken, lamb, goat, turkey
- milk – fresh milk, cheese, cottage cheese, yogurt
- eggs – yolks, which contain a number of other vitamins and minerals
Vitamin B12 is a water-soluble vitamin found in animal-based foods. Although they are commonly available, some people may be deficient – for example those who suffer from digestive system diseases.
Therefore have tests done regularly. They should usually be requested by a doctor, because they are not commonly performed as standard. And of course make sure you do not miss any of these symptoms.
