Some nutrition studies conclude that if you eat only vegetables, you will live longer, you will need less sleep and you would have lower risks of incurring any major illness like heart disease and cancer. However, studies also indicate that this is not all true because Vitamin B12 deficiency symptoms may result.

What is a vegan? A vegan is someone that follows a strict vegetarian diet by not including any eggs, dairy products, meat and all other food derived from animals in their daily meals.  They also avoid using any products made from animals, such as leather purses, coats, shoes, etc.  For some vegans, they also won't consume processed animal by-products used in other drinks and foods like some wines and refined white sugar. Knowingly or unknowingly, these vegans deprive themselves of the Vitamin B12 benefits. Some may already experiencing Vitamin B12 deficiency symptoms but they are not aware of it.

Vitamin B12 is needed by the body because it is essential in the formation of red blood cells. Also, it is necessary in maintaining healthy body nerves, in making DNA and in sustaining energy levels. The minimum daily Vitamin B12 intake requirement for adults is 2-3 micrograms.

Since the body's muscle tissue, kidneys and liver store B12 plus the body reabsorbs up to 75 % of the vitamin, this health condition does not immediately develop. It takes about 5 to 25 years before one can become Vitamin B12 deficient due to insufficient Vitamin B12 intake. Also, since most of the Vitamin B12 deficiency symptoms are similar to the symptoms of other illnesses like fatigue, nausea, shortness of breath, constipation and loss of weight, low sperm count, menstrual problems, and unusual palpitation, it is best to consult your health care provider about these issues.

A risk that a vegan has to take is Vitamin B12 deficiency. Because vegans impose upon themselves the rule of strict vegetarian diet, they don't get enough Vitamin B12 benefits. Fruits and vegetables have no Vitamin B12 in them. This vitamin is found in animal products and dairy products. Thus, it is recommended that vegans include soya milk, some dairy-free margarine, breakfast cereals, and nutritional yeast in their diet as some vegans who are health conscious do. This is because these products are now equipped with Vitamin B12. Taking some B12 supplements will also help a lot.

Lack of Vitamin B12 can lead to more serious illnesses. This is a fact that every person should take note of, whether a vegan, vegetarian, or a meat eater.  It is best to familiarize yourself with the Vitamin B12 deficiency symptoms and never deprive yourself of the Vitamin B12 benefits.