Dr Dawn Harper on signs of vitamin B12 and vitamin D deficiency
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Vitamin B12 is one of the most important vitamins for the body’s overall health. But huge numbers of people may be at risk of a B12 deficiency, it’s been claimed. What are the key warning signs of the condition?
Vitamin B12 is used by the body to carry out a number of everyday functions, according to the NHS.
It’s used to make new red blood cells, nerves, and even DNA.
But the body can’t naturally manufacture vitamin B12 by itself, which is why it’s essential that everyone eats enough B12-rich foods.
But if you are at risk of a vitamin B12 deficiency, it can be difficult to know, as the symptoms can be quite subtle.
If you have a deficiency, you may develop anaemia, warned the NHS.
Anaemia is caused by having fewer red blood cells than normal, or by having unusually low haemoglobin in those cells.
There are 10 key symptoms of a B12 deficiency that’s caused by anaemia.
You should speak to a doctor if you develop any of the symptoms, and they won’t go away.
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Vitamin B12 deficiency symptoms
- Pale yellow tinge to your skin
- Sore and red tongue (glossitis)
- Mouth ulcers
- Pins and needles (paraesthesia)
- Changes in the way that you walk and move around
- Disturbed vision
- Irritability
- Depression
- Changes in the way you think, feel and behave
- A decline in your mental abilities, such as memory, understanding and judgement (dementia)
The NHS said: “Vitamin B12 or folate deficiency anaemia can cause a wide range of symptoms.
“These usually develop gradually, but can worsen if the condition goes untreated.
“Some of these symptoms can also happen in people who have a vitamin B12 deficiency but have not developed anaemia.
“See a GP if you’re experiencing symptoms of vitamin B12 or folate deficiency anaemia. These conditions can often be diagnosed based on your symptoms and the results of a blood test.”
The best way to avoid developing a B12 deficiency is to add certain foods to your diet.
The best dietary sources of vitamin B12 include animal products, and some fortified breakfast cereals.56.
All adults need around 1.5mcg of vitamin B12 every single day.
Most people that eat meat products should be able to get enough B12 in their diet. But those that follow a vegan diet may be at risk of a deficiency, warned the NHS.
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