Even though Vitamin B12 is found in many foods, B12 insufficiency and deficiency are relatively common.
What is B12?
Vitamin B12 is an essential nutrient that your body needs for processes, like DNA synthesis, energy production, and central nervous system function. It supports red blood cell formation and as a result improves symptoms of tiredness and fatigue. It’s also taken to improve mood and symptoms of depression. As B12 is derived form meat and fish products it can be a key deficiency amongst those choosing a Vegan diet.
B12 and Vegans.
Vegans have a deficiency in Vitamin B12 which is mainly found in animal products, especially meat and dairy products. Luckily for those on vegan diets, fortified foods can be good sources of this vitamin too. Vitamin B12 is a nutrient that helps keep the body’s nerve and blood cells healthy and helps make DNA, the genetic material in all cells. Vitamin B12 also helps prevent a type of anaemia called megaloblastic anaemia that makes people tired and weak.
So what are the symptoms to look our for?
If you’re low or deficient in B12, you’ll likely feel fatigued.Your body’s cells need B12 to function properly. As such, having inadequate B12 levels can decrease normal red blood cell production, which can impair oxygen delivery.
Another sign that can indicate B12 deficiency is pale or yellow skin.ike the condition called iron deficiency anemia, anemia related to B12 deficiency may make your skin pale due to a lack of fully-matured, healthy red blood cells in the body
B12 insufficiency and deficiency can lead to neurological side effects, including headaches.In fact, headaches are amongst the most commonly reported symptoms related to B12 deficiency in both adults and kids.
B12 is essential to the proper functioning of your central nervous system, and a deficiency in this nutrient can impact your mental health.Specifically, B12 deficiency is associated with a greater risk of developing depression.
A B12 deficiency may also cause diarrhea, nausea, constipation, bloating, gas, and other gastrointestinal symptoms
Other symptoms to look our for include:
- Difficulty concentrating
- Pain and inflammation of the mouth
- Paresthesia in hands and feet
- Muscle cramps and muscle weakness
- Vision disturbances
You can shop our Vitamin B12 supplements here.
Always consult your doctor if you think you have a deficiency .