Vitamin B12 is one of the essential vitamins that the body needs to maintain healthy nerves, produce red blood cells, and improve brain function. A deficiency in this vitamin is a common health problem that may affect various body functions. In this article, we will learn about the most prominent symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency and its health effects.
1.Feeling tired and exhausted
Vitamin B12 deficiency leads to a decrease in the production of red blood cells, which reduces the amount of oxygen reaching the body’s tissues. This causes a feeling of chronic fatigue and exhaustion even after getting enough sleep.
2 .Difficulty concentrating and poor memory
Vitamin B12 is critical for proper brain function. When it is low, an individual can experience poor memory, distractibility and problems with focus, which can impact everyday and functional performance.
3 .Feeling tingling and numbness
Common symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency include tingling and numbness in the hands and feet; its deficiency causes damage to peripheral nerves due to insufficient formation of myelin, which is the sheath that protects
4.Pale skin
Vitamin B12 deficiency can cause pale skin due to decreased red blood cell production, leading to megaloblastic anemia.
5.Mouth and tongue ulcers
People with vitamin B12 deficiency may notice redness or inflammation of the tongue, along with painful ulcers inside the mouth, which may affect the ability to eat.
6.Shortness of breath and dizziness
As a result of low red blood cells, people with vitamin B12 deficiency may experience shortness of breath and constant dizziness due to lack of oxygen in the body.
7.Mood changes and depression
Vitamin B12 deficiency can affect mood, as it is linked to low levels of serotonin in the brain, which increases the risk of depression and anxiety.
8.Muscle weakness and difficulty moving
Since vitamin B12 is essential for healthy nerves and muscles, its deficiency can lead to general weakness and difficulty with balance and movement, especially in the elderly.
9.Vision problems
A severe deficiency in vitamin B12 can damage the optic nerve, causing blurred vision or blurred spots in the field of vision.
10.Digestive disorders
People with vitamin B12 deficiency may experience digestive problems such as diarrhea or constipation and loss of appetite, which can lead to weight loss.
Causes of vitamin B12 deficiency
Not getting enough of the vitamin through the diet, especially among vegetarians.
Digestive disorders that affect the absorption of the vitamin, such as gastritis or Crohn’s disease.
Taking certain medications that affect the absorption of the vitamin, such as antacids.
Pernicious anemia, which prevents the body from absorbing vitamin B12 properly.
How to prevent and treat
Eat foods rich in vitamin B12 such as meat, fish, eggs, and dairy products.
Take nutritional supplements under the supervision of a doctor in the event of a severe deficiency.
Treat digestive problems that hinder the absorption of the vitamin.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is best to consult a doctor to conduct the necessary tests and check the levels of vitamin B12 in the body. Taking care to get sufficient amounts of this vitamin ensures good health and reduces the risk of future health problems.
