Symptoms of B12 Deficiency

Vitamin B12 is an important part of a person's health. This vitamin is responsible for helping to form red blood cells properly, DNA synthesis and neurological function. It also works as a co-factor for methionine synthase and L-methylmalonyl-CoA mutase. B12 is found naturally in many foods that we consume and can be found in their nutrition data normally. It is also added to some foods as well. Some people take it by prescription or as a dietary supplement to ensure they get the recommended amount.

The majority of people do not get as much B12 as they need. Many people have vitamin B12 deficiency symptoms and do not even realize it. Some symptoms include having pale skin, feeling sick to the stomach, weight loss, constipation or diarrhea, weakness or tiredness. Another common vitamin B12 deficiency symptom is bleeding gums and a sore, red tongue.

If a person's level of vitamin B12 stays low for too long, it can even lead to nerve damage. Vitamin B12 deficiency symptoms after too long may include depression, dementia, balance issues and even numbness in the toes and fingers.

Deficiency is diagnosed with blood tests normally. Doctors usually test the blood for B12 levels, other B vitamin levels and folic acid levels. There are people who are more at risk for vitamin B12 deficiency symptoms than others. They include older adults, people with pernicious anemia, those who have had gastrointestinal disorders or gastrointestinal surgery, vegetarians and lactating or pregnant women.

An average person can get their recommended daily intake of B12, just like other vitamins, by eating a proper diet with good nutrition. Paying attention to nutrition data is very important. Include things in the diet like milk and other milk products, beans, nuts, eggs, poultry and lean meats and fish for the best results.

If eating healthy and paying attention to nutrition data is not enough, there are other option for getting enough B12. There are shots of vitamin B12 that can be administered by a doctor, as well as pills. The pills work well for most. Some with conditions like Crohn's disease, however, may require shots, since the intestine is unable to absorb the B12 properly.

• Symptoms and Causes of Vitamin B12 Deficiency
• Most Common Symptoms of B12 Deficiency