Vitamin B12 deficiency: Early signs, causes, and who is most at risk

Vitamin B12 deficiency can cause fatigue, nerve problems, and brain fog. Learn early symptoms, who is at risk, and how to correct low B12 levels. (Image: Pexels)

Vitamin B12 is a water-soluble vitamin, also called cobalamin, which is necessary for the synthesis of DNA and red blood cells, along with the maintenance of neurological function. It also plays a major role in myelin formation and metabolism of energy.

It is naturally found in animal-based foods like milk and curd, along with cheese, fish, and eggs. Fortified cereals and foods are a good option for vegetarians and vegans. Adults need about 2-2.4 micrograms

Earlier vitamin B12 was treated more as just another vitamin, but B12 is now known to be involved in energy, nerves, and brain function, and deficiencies that can lead to issues that are both surprising and serious. Nowadays, with busy lifestyles and changing diets, spotting the warning signs early has never been more important.

Also Read: Causes of Vitamin B12 deficiency, symptoms to watch out for, and how to increase levels naturally

Vitamin B12 cannot be produced by the body by itself. When levels dip, the symptoms aren’t always obvious. Fatigue, tingling in hands and feet, or even “brain fog” can slowly creep in, making one feel fatigued without realising why.

Some people are more vulnerable to vitamin B12, like vegans and vegetarians who do not consume supplements, older adults whose absorption declines with age, and individuals with digestive conditions like Crohn’s or celiac disease are at higher risk. Even certain medications can interfere with B12 absorption, meaning that the diet may be adequate but the body struggles to use the vitamin.

The common symptoms to watch for include persistent tiredness or weakness, pale or yellowish skin, tingling, numbness, or balance problems, memory lapses or “brain fog” and mood swings, along with irritability and depression. Digestive features like nausea or loss of appetite may also occur.

At-risk individuals include vegans and strict vegetarians, older adults (especially 60+) and people with digestive disorders or those who have undergone a gut surgery. Individuals taking certain medications (e.g., proton pump inhibitors, metformin) are also likely to develop vitamin B12 deficiency.

You may consult your healthcare provider for the above mentioned symptoms, and the doctor may advise some blood tests to confirm deficiency. Early diagnosis can aid in preventing serious complications.

Also Read: Expert shares why your body needs vitamin B12 and best food sources to get it from

Including animal products or fortified foods in the diet may help, and supplements like tablets, sublingual drops, or injections may be advised.

Monitoring symptoms like fatigue, mood, tingling, or memory changes is necessary for early diagnosis.

Improvement is usually noticeable within weeks once B12 is corrected.

FAQs on Vitamin B12 Deficiency

1. What is vitamin B12, and why is it important?

Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is a water-soluble vitamin essential for DNA synthesis, red blood cell production, and neurological function. It also plays a key role in myelin formation and energy metabolism.

2. What foods are rich in vitamin B12?

Vitamin B12 is naturally found in animal-based foods such as milk, curd, cheese, fish, and eggs. Fortified cereals and foods are good options for vegetarians and vegans.

3. Who is at risk of vitamin B12 deficiency?

Vegans and vegetarians who do not consume supplements, older adults, individuals with digestive conditions like Crohn’s or celiac disease, and those taking certain medications are at higher risk of vitamin B12 deficiency.

4. What are the symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency?

Common symptoms include persistent tiredness, weakness, pale or yellowish skin, tingling, numbness, balance problems, memory lapses, mood swings, irritability, depression, nausea, and loss of appetite.

5. How is vitamin B12 deficiency diagnosed and treated?

Consult a healthcare provider if you experience symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency. They may recommend blood tests to confirm the deficiency. Treatment includes dietary adjustments, such as incorporating animal products or fortified foods, and taking supplements like tablets, sublingual drops, or injections.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.