8+ important signs of vitamin B12 deficiency that are often overlooked
Of all the common vitamin deficiencies,
vitamin B12 is among the most harmful. This crucial vitamin is
responsible for such big tasks as making DNA and red blood cells, as
well as helping your nervous system function properly. Despite its
importance, however, your body doesn't make it naturally; we rely on
food to supply enough vitamin B12 maintain good health.
If you suffer from Crohn's disease, celiac disease or an immune disorder such as Grave's disease or lupus,
your doctor probably has talked to you about the dangers of vitamin B12
deficiency. People with those conditions are not the only ones who need
to worry, however; vegans and vegetarians, as well as people over the
age of 50, are at particular risk for this form of anemia. Here's how to
know if you are vitamin B12 deficient.
1. Pale yellow skin. Red blood cells produce bilirubin as they break down, which causes jaundice.
2. Numbness and tingling. Vitamin B12 deficiency has a direct
effect on the nerves. Numbness, tingling, tremors and problems with
balance can point to depleted vitamin B12 levels.
3. Mood swings. The same deficiency that can cause tingling and
numbness also can affect your mood. Anxiety, depression and extreme ups
and downs can signal a lack of the vitamin B12 that helps synthesize
important mood-regulating chemicals such as serotonin and dopamine. And, of course, if the feeling lasts more than two weeks, seek medical help.
4. Smooth, red tongue. Vitamin B12 can cause a loss of
papillae on the tongue. Taste buds are located on the papillae, so if
you lose a taste for food and no longer find eating enjoyable, talk to
your doctor about checking your vitamin B12 level.
5. Eye problems. An extreme lack of vitamin B12 can damage the
optic nerve. This can cause blurry or double vision, sensitivity to
light and, in some cases, vision loss.
6. Burning feet. Nerve damage from vitamin B12 deficiency may
manifest as a burning sensation in the feet. Like numbness and tingling,
the sensation typically begins in the fingers or toes and, left
untreated, can spread up the arms and legs.
7. Difficulty walking. If you stagger or lose your balance when
walking, a vitamin B12 deficiency may be causing neurological damage,
says Harvard Health Publications.
8. Memory loss. Difficulty thinking and memory loss are two more neurological symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency.
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If
you are over the age of 50, a strict vegetarian or vegan, or have had
weight loss surgery, talk with your doctor about having your B12 level
checked. It's also a good idea if you take a proton-pump inhibitor such
as Nexium, an H2 blocker such as Zantac, or metformin for diabetes.