What are the common symptoms of vitamin B-12 deficiency? Discover the 11 key signs and their underlying causes in this informative article.

Vitamin B-12 Deficiency: An Overview

Vitamin B-12, also known as cobalamin, is an essential nutrient that plays a crucial role in various bodily functions. The human body does not produce this vitamin naturally, so it must be obtained through dietary sources or supplements. A deficiency in vitamin B-12 can lead to a wide range of physical and psychological symptoms, which can significantly impact an individual’s overall health and well-being.

Symptoms of Vitamin B-12 Deficiency

Vitamin B-12 deficiency can manifest in numerous ways, affecting various systems within the body. Here are 11 common symptoms of this deficiency:

1. Tingling or “Pins and Needles” in the Hands and Feet

Vitamin B-12 is essential for the production of myelin, a protective coating that surrounds the nerves. Deficiency in this vitamin can lead to nerve damage, resulting in a tingling or “pins and needles” sensation in the hands and feet, a condition known as peripheral neuropathy.

2. Numbness and Muscle Weakness

As the nerve damage progresses, individuals may experience numbness and muscle weakness, particularly in the extremities. This can make it difficult to perform everyday tasks and maintain balance while walking.

3. Pale or Jaundiced Skin

Vitamin B-12 plays a crucial role in the production of red blood cells. A deficiency can lead to a condition called megaloblastic anemia, where the body produces larger, immature red blood cells. This can cause the skin to appear pale or take on a yellowish, jaundiced tone.

4. Fatigue and Weakness

Megaloblastic anemia resulting from vitamin B-12 deficiency can also lead to a decrease in the number of healthy red blood cells, which are responsible for transporting oxygen throughout the body. This can cause feelings of extreme fatigue and weakness.

5. Rapid Heart Rate and Shortness of Breath

The lack of oxygen-carrying red blood cells can also contribute to a faster heart rate and shortness of breath, as the body tries to compensate for the decreased oxygen supply.

6. Digestive Issues

Vitamin B-12 deficiency can sometimes be associated with digestive problems, such as loss of appetite, constipation, diarrhea, or a sore, red tongue.

7. Cognitive Impairment

Vitamin B-12 is essential for the proper functioning of the nervous system, and a deficiency can lead to cognitive impairment, including memory loss, confusion, and even dementia-like symptoms.

Understanding the Causes of Vitamin B-12 Deficiency

Vitamin B-12 deficiency can occur for various reasons, including:

• Insufficient dietary intake of vitamin B-12, particularly in vegetarians and vegans
• Malabsorption issues, such as those associated with conditions like Crohn’s disease or celiac disease
• Certain medications, such as proton pump inhibitors, which can interfere with vitamin B-12 absorption
• Gastrointestinal surgeries that affect the ability to absorb vitamin B-12
• Age-related decline in the production of intrinsic factor, a substance necessary for vitamin B-12 absorption

Diagnosing and Treating Vitamin B-12 Deficiency

If an individual is experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above, it is essential to seek medical attention. A healthcare professional can perform a blood test to measure the levels of vitamin B-12 and determine if a deficiency is present. Once diagnosed, the treatment may involve:

• Dietary changes to increase the intake of vitamin B-12-rich foods
• Supplementation with vitamin B-12 tablets or injections, depending on the severity of the deficiency
• Addressing any underlying conditions that may be contributing to the deficiency, such as gastrointestinal disorders

Preventing Vitamin B-12 Deficiency

To maintain optimal levels of vitamin B-12, it is recommended to:

• Consume a balanced diet that includes animal-based sources of vitamin B-12, such as meat, poultry, eggs, and dairy products
• For vegetarians and vegans, incorporate plant-based sources of vitamin B-12, such as fortified cereals, plant-based milk alternatives, and nutritional yeast
• Consider taking a vitamin B-12 supplement if dietary intake is insufficient
• Regularly monitor vitamin B-12 levels, especially if at risk of deficiency due to underlying medical conditions or dietary restrictions

Conclusion

Vitamin B-12 deficiency can have a significant impact on an individual’s physical and mental well-being. By understanding the various symptoms and their underlying causes, individuals can take proactive steps to ensure they are getting enough of this essential nutrient. Regular check-ups and a balanced diet or appropriate supplementation can help prevent and address vitamin B-12 deficiency, allowing for optimal health and well-being.

11 symptoms of vitamin B-12 deficiency

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Symptoms of vitamin B-12 deficiency include fatigue, low mood, and nerve problems.

The human body does not create vitamin B-12, so people must get this nutrient from their diet. It is crucial for making DNA and red blood cells, and it helps support the nervous system.

Vitamin B-12 plays a vital role in the production of blood cells.

Many of the symptoms of vitamin B-12 deficiency arise because it causes a lack of healthy blood cells. The body needs plenty of these cells to get oxygen around the body and keep the organs in good health.

A vitamin B-12 deficiency can lead to both physical and psychological problems. In this article, we explore 11 symptoms of vitamin B-12 deficiency and explain why they occur.

Share on PinterestVitamin B-12 deficiency can cause symptoms that impact a person’s mental and physical health.

Vitamin B-12 deficiency may affect between 1.5 and 15.0 percent of people.

This deficiency can cause a wide range of symptoms that affect a person’s mental and physical health.

It is important to consume foods that contain vitamin B-12 on a regular basis. Adults need around 2.4 micrograms (mcg) of vitamin B-12 each day.

Vitamin B-12 is a water-soluble vitamin that is present in animal-based foods, such as:

• red meat
• poultry
• eggs
• dairy
• fish

If a person does not eat animal products, they will need to add vegetarian and vegan sources of vitamin B-12 to their diet. These include fortified cereals, plant milks, bread, and nutritional yeast.

As vitamin B-12 deficiency shares many symptoms with other nutritional deficiencies and health conditions, it is possible that people may neither notice it nor get a diagnosis.

Being aware of all of the signs can help people identify the deficiency and seek treatment.

Below, we look at the symptoms of vitamin B-12 deficiency and their causes.

Vitamin B-12 deficiency may cause “pins and needles” in the hands or feet. This symptom occurs because the vitamin plays a crucial role in the nervous system, and its absence can cause people to develop nerve conduction problems or nerve damage.

In the nervous system, vitamin B-12 helps produce a substance called myelin. Myelin is a protective coating that shields the nerves and helps them transmit sensations.

People who are vitamin B-12 deficient may not produce enough myelin to coat their nerves. Without this coating, nerves can become damaged.

Problems are more common in the nerves in the hands and feet, which are called peripheral nerves. Peripheral nerve damage may lead to tingling in these parts of the body.

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Over time, peripheral nerve damage resulting from vitamin B-12 deficiency can lead to movement problems.

Numbness in the feet and limbs may make it hard for a person to walk without support. They may also experience muscle weakness and diminished reflexes.

Pale or yellow skin, called jaundice, may be a symptom of vitamin B-12 deficiency.

Jaundice develops when a person’s body is not able to produce enough red blood cells. Red blood cells circulating under the skin provide it with its normal color. Without enough of these cells, the skin may look pale.

Vitamin B-12 plays a role in the production of red blood cells. A vitamin B-12 deficiency can cause a lack of red blood cells, or megaloblastic anemia, which has an association with jaundice.

This type of anemia can also weaken the red blood cells, which the body then breaks down more quickly. When the liver breaks down red blood cells, it releases bilirubin. Bilirubin is a brownish substance that gives the skin the yellowish tone that is characteristic of jaundice.

Megaloblastic anemia due to vitamin B-12 deficiency may lead to a person feeling fatigued.

Without enough red blood cells to carry oxygen around their body, a person can feel extremely tired.

Share on PinterestA fast heart rate and shortness of breath may be symptoms of vitamin B-12 deficiency.

A fast heart rate may be a symptom of vitamin B-12 deficiency.

The heart may start to beat faster to make up for the reduced number of red blood cells in the body.

Anemia puts pressure on the heart to push a higher volume of blood around the body and to do it more quickly. This response is the body’s way of trying to ensure that enough oxygen circulates through all of the body’s systems and reaches all the organs.

Anemia that results from vitamin B-12 deficiency may cause a person to feel a little short of breath. It is possible to link this to a lack of red blood cells and a fast heartbeat.

Anyone who is experiencing real difficulty breathing should see a doctor straight away.

Vitamin B-12 affects oral health. As a result, being deficient in vitamin B-12 may cause the following mouth problems:

• glossitis, which causes a swollen, smooth, red tongue
• mouth ulcers
• a burning sensation in the mouth

These symptoms occur because vitamin B-12 deficiency causes a reduction in red blood cell production, which results in less oxygen reaching the tongue.

Vitamin B-12 deficiency may cause problems with thinking, which doctors refer to as cognitive impairment. These issues include difficulty thinking or reasoning and memory loss.

One study even linked low vitamin B-12 levels to an increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease, vascular dementia, and Parkinson’s disease.

The reduced amount of oxygen reaching the brain might be to blame for the thinking and reasoning problems.

Being deficient in vitamin B-12 can affect a person’s mood, potentially causing irritability or depression.

There is a need for more research into the link between vitamin B-12 and mental health. One theory is that vitamin B-12 helps break down a brain chemical called homocysteine. Having too much homocysteine in the brain may cause mental health problems.

Vitamin B-12 deficiency can affect the digestive tract.

A lack of red blood cells means that not enough oxygen reaches the gut. Insufficient oxygen here may lead to a person both feeling and being sick. It may also cause diarrhea.

As a result of digestive problems, such as nausea, people with vitamin B-12 deficiency may lose their appetite. A decreased appetite can lead to weight loss in the long term.

Share on PinterestEating a vegan diet increases the risk of vitamin B-12 deficiency.

Even if a person gets enough vitamin B-12 in their diet, some underlying health conditions can affect the absorption of vitamin B-12 in the gut.

These conditions include:

• Crohn’s disease
• celiac disease
• atrophic gastritis
• pernicious anemia

The following factors make a person more likely to have a vitamin B-12 deficiency:

• being older, because a person becomes less able to absorb B-12 as they age
• eating a vegetarian or vegan diet
• taking anti-acid medication for an extended period
• weight loss surgery or other stomach surgery, which can affect how the digestive system absorbs vitamin B-12

Most people can get enough vitamin B-12 from dietary sources. For those who cannot, a doctor may prescribe or recommend B-12 supplements. People can also get B-12 supplements from drug stores or choose between brands online.

Most multivitamins contain vitamin B-12. People can take B-12 supplements in the form of oral tablets, sublingual tablets that dissolve under the tongue, or injections. A doctor can provide advice on the correct dosage of this vitamin.

People who have trouble absorbing vitamin B-12 may need shots of the vitamin to treat their deficiency.

A doctor can advise people on the best way to prevent vitamin B-12 deficiency, depending on their dietary choices and health.

The body needs vitamin B-12 for a range of bodily functions, which include making red blood cells. Being deficient in vitamin B-12 causes physical and psychological symptoms, including nerve problems, fatigue, and difficulty thinking.

Most vitamin B-12 deficiency symptoms occur due to a lack of red blood cells, which means that the body does not get enough oxygen. The body’s oxygen supply is crucial for many aspects of health.

As with other nutrients, the best way for most people to get vitamin B-12 is in the diet. If a person cannot get enough from their usual diet, fortified foods and other dietary supplements may help.

In most cases, doctors can treat vitamin B-12 deficiency. However, people with long-term deficiency may have long-lasting effects, such as nerve damage.

Spotting the signs of vitamin B-12 deficiency early on and getting the right treatment can improve a person’s outlook.

Vitamin B12 deficiency: Symptoms, complications, and more

A vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to nerve and brain damage and anemia. Early symptoms include weakness, constipation, and depression. It can result from dietary factors, medication use, and some underlying conditions.

Vitamin B12 is vital for creating and maintaining nerve and red blood cells, it supports the nervous system, and it helps create DNA, the basis of all cells.

Without treatment, vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to anemia. It can also result in nerve and brain damage. According to the Office of Dietary Supplements (ODS), the damage may be irreversible in the long term.

This article looks at how to recognize B12 deficiency, who is at risk, and how to treat or prevent it.

Learn more about the B vitamins here.

According to the National Health Service (NHS) in the United Kingdom, a person with vitamin B12 deficiency may develop anemia and other symptoms.

Low levels of B12 can lead to:

• fatigue and weakness
• constipation
• loss of appetite and weight loss
• problems with balance
• depression
• problems with thinking
• a sore mouth or tongue

In infants, signs of a deficiency include:

• not growing or developing at the expected rate
• problems with movement
• megaloblastic anemia

Anemia and neurological problems can lead to further symptoms and complications.

Anemia

Body cells need vitamin B12 to reproduce. If a person does not have enough vitamin B12, their body cannot make enough red blood cells. This can result in anemia.

The hallmark symptom of B12 deficiency is megaloblastic anemia, in which the red blood cells are immature and larger than usual. This affects their ability to deliver oxygen effectively to the body.

Common symptoms of anemia are:

• fatigue
• shortness of breath
• feeling faint
• headaches
• pale or yellowish skin
• heart palpitations
• tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
• reduced appetite and weight loss

Neurological symptoms

A vitamin B12 deficiency can also lead to neurological symptoms, such as:

• numbness and tingling in the hands and feet
• problems with thinking and memory
• confusion
• problems with balance
• changes in gait and other movements

Long-term B12 deficiency may increase the risk of various health problems. One reason for this may be that the body needs vitamin B12 to process homocysteine.

Experts have found links between high levels of homocysteine and some health conditions, such as dementia and cardiovascular disease.

Dementia and thinking

Low levels of vitamin B12 may affect brain health in the long term and increase the risk of cognitive decline.

Depending on the person’s age, it may lead to:

• reduced school performance in children
• irritability
• memory loss
• depression
• dementia

Some research has found higher levels of homocysteine in people with Alzheimer’s and dementia.

In 2012, researchers published the results of a study involving 121 people aged 65 years and over.

First, they tested the participants’ blood to identify levels of vitamin B12 and other markers of B12 deficiency. They also assessed their memories and other thinking skills.

After 52 months, they carried out MRI scans of the participants’ brains. They checked for brain size and any signs of brain damage.

Results showed that those with the strongest signs of vitamin B12 deficiency in the initial tests were much more likely to have lower cognitive test scores and smaller total brain volumes after 52 months.

Neurological damage

Studies have shown that 20–30% of people with B12 deficiency have neurological damage, such as:

• nerve damage
• damage to the spinal cord
• neurological problems that affect mental health

Cardiovascular disease

Experts have also found high levels of homocysteine in people with coronary heart disease and stroke.

However, there is not enough evidence to recommend B12 supplementation to prevent heart disease.

Energy levels

Some people use B12 supplements to boost energy levels and athletic performance. However, supplements only appear to help if a person already has a deficiency.

The amount of vitamin B12 an individual needs per day will depend on their age. People also need more B12 during pregnancy and while breastfeeding.

According to the ODS, the average daily recommended amounts for different ages in micrograms (mcg) are:

A B12 deficiency can occur if a person does not consume enough of the vitamin in their diet or if their body cannot absorb it effectively during digestion.

When a person consumes food that contains vitamin B12, the body takes two steps to absorb it.

First, hydrochloric acid in the stomach separates it from the protein it binds to in food.

Then, vitamin B12 combines with another protein that the stomach produces, called intrinsic factor. Then, the intestines can absorb it.

Here are some possible causes of vitamin B12 deficiency.

1) Pernicious anemia

Pernicious anemia is an autoimmune disease that affects the gut’s ability to digest vitamin B12.

When a person has pernicious anemia, their immune system creates antibodies that attack the stomach’s lining. There, they damage cells that produce intrinsic factor.

If the stomach cannot produce intrinsic factor, the intestines will be unable to absorb vitamin B12.

2) Bowel problems

Some people may have problems absorbing vitamin B12 into their bloodstream because of a condition that affects their stomach or small intestine.

Possible causes include:

• Crohn’s disease
• celiac disease
• surgery that reduces the size of the stomach or the length of the intestine

These people can experience malnutrition because they cannot absorb enough vitamins, water, and other nutrients.

3) Diet

People who follow a vegan or vegetarian diet may have a higher risk of B12 deficiency. During pregnancy, this may increase the risk of neurological damage in a fetus.

While some plant foods contain vitamin B12, it is often in a form that the body cannot absorb efficiently, according to research published in 2013.

People who follow a plant-based diet can supplement their B12 intake by eating fortified foods, such as nutritional yeast products.

4) Medications

Some medications can affect the body’s ability to digest vitamin B12, leading to a deficiency.

Examples include proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and Histamine h3 receptor agonists (h3 blockers), which doctors prescribe to treat indigestion, heartburn, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

PPIs prevent the stomach from producing acid, but the body needs acid to absorb vitamin B12.

5) Functional vitamin B12 deficiency

Some people appear to have enough vitamin B12 in their blood, but they do not have the proteins they need to transport it between cells. This means the body cannot use it effectively.

They can develop neurological symptoms related to B12 deficiency.

To assess for a vitamin B12 deficiency, a doctor will likely:

• ask about symptoms
• carry out a physical examination
• do a blood test to measure B12 levels and check for anemia
• do other tests to rule out other conditions and check for pernicious anemia, if necessary

Some people will have a B12 deficiency but no symptoms. A doctor may recommend regular testing for people with long-term gastrointestinal problems to ensure a deficiency does not develop.

Getting an early diagnosis can help prevent long-term complications.

Treatment will depend largely on the cause of a deficiency.

Options include increasing vitamin B12 intake through:

• intramuscular injections
• oral medicine
• adding foods that are rich in B12 to the diet

Some people may need regular injections for the rest of their life.

Most people can prevent B12 deficiency through dietary choices, but this is not always the case.

People following a plant-based diet

People whose diet is largely or wholly plant-based should ensure their B12 intake is adequate.

Dietary options include:

• fortified breakfast cereals
• fortified nutritional yeast
• fortified soy milk

Learn more about supplements that are suitable for people on a vegan diet.

People who eat meat or fish

For those who eat meat or fish, a balanced diet containing fish, meat, and dairy foods should have enough B12 for human requirements.

Other conditions and medical treatments

Anyone who has a chronic gastrointestinal condition or believes they may have symptoms of B12 deficiency should seek medical advice.

The doctor will seek to identify the cause and treat it accordingly.

Good sources of vitamin B12 include the following:

• clams
• beef liver
• fish, such as trout, salmon, and tuna
• nutritional yeast
• dairy products
• eggs
• fortified yeasts and other foods

Get some more tips here on vitamin B12 sources.

Vitamin B12 is essential for preventing anemia and maintaining neurological health. It may help prevent dementia and heart disease.

A balanced diet can often help prevent a deficiency. People who eat only plant-based foods may consider including fortified foods or asking a doctor about supplements.

A doctor may also recommend supplements if a person has pernicious anemia, Crohn’s disease, or another condition that affects their ability to absorb vitamin B12.

Vitamin B12 – why the body, higher or lower, what to do

Why the body needs vitamin B12

Vitamin B12 (vitamin B12, vitamin B12) is a whole group of biologically active substances containing cobalt (cobalamins). It includes cyanocobalamin, hydroxocobalamin, methylcobalamin and cobamamide.

But more often, when talking about vitamin B12, they mean only cyanocobalamin: it is in this form that most of the vitamin enters the body.

Vitamin B12 helps the body provide important processes:

• DNA synthesis,
• energy production,
• maintenance of the normal function of the nervous system.

Also, vitamin B12, along with other B vitamins, is involved in the folate cycle – the process of converting the amino acid homocysteine ​​into methionine. If vitamin B12 is not enough, this process can be disrupted. At the same time, homocysteine ​​begins to accumulate in the body. It damages the inner walls of blood vessels, and cholesterol plaques are more easily deposited on them (atherosclerosis develops) and blood clots are formed – blood clots. This often leads to blockage of the veins, followed by a heart attack or stroke.

An increase in homocysteine ​​levels can also be dangerous for pregnant women: the risk of developing severe complications (miscarriage, preeclampsia and eclampsia, venous thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, fetal malformations) increases.

In addition, vitamin B12 helps prevent the development of anemia – a decrease in the number of red blood cells in the blood.

Anti-anemic factors, that is, substances that stimulate hematopoiesis, were discovered in 1930 by the American physiologist and hematologist William Bosworth Castle. He discovered that certain cells in the stomach produce a special protein that forms a complex with vitamin B12, which allows the vitamin to be absorbed. The protein discovered by Castle was called the intrinsic factor of Castle, and vitamin B12 was called the extrinsic factor of Castle.

Vitamin B12 deficiency disrupts the division and maturation of red blood cells – erythrocytes – in the bone marrow. Their number in the blood decreases, and the volume increases. Because of this, tissues experience oxygen starvation.

B12 deficiency anemia is one of the most common anemias, especially in the elderly, vegetarians and vegans, people who abuse alcohol. Another reason why B12 deficiency anemia can develop is autoimmune gastritis. In this disease, the internal factor of Castle is either produced in insufficient quantities or not produced at all due to the body’s autoimmune reaction to this protein or to the stomach cells themselves that synthesize it. As a result, the external factor of Castle, that is, vitamin B12, is not absorbed – and the process of hematopoiesis is disrupted.

Vegetarianism often contributes to the development of B12 deficiency anemia

Why get tested for vitamin B12

The doctor may recommend taking a blood test for vitamin B12 to find out the cause of anemia or neuropathy (impaired impulse conduction along the nerve fiber), as well as to monitor the effectiveness of their treatment.

Vitamin B12

Code 4.4.

The study determines the content of vitamin B12 in the blood and allows you to identify its deficiency, understand the cause of anemia and neuropathy or monitor the effectiveness of their treatment. It is recommended to take in combination with other laboratory tests for vitamins of group B.

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In addition, the study may be prescribed for pregnant women, as well as nursing mothers.

Common indications for testing :

• symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency;
• detection of macrocytes (enlarged erythrocytes) based on the results of a general blood test;
• hyperhomocysteinemia – increased level of homocysteine ​​in the blood;
• age of the patient: in children and the elderly, vitamin B12 may be poorly absorbed;
• malnutrition: vegan or vegetarian diet;
• alcohol abuse;
• taking vitamin B12 supplements.

A doctor of any specialization can refer a patient for analysis.

How to prepare for a vitamin B12 test

In order for the result of a blood test for vitamin B12 to be correct, it is enough to follow simple recommendations.

• Donate blood on an empty stomach, between 8 am and 11 am. During the day, blood counts can change significantly, the result of the morning analysis is the most reliable.
• 24 hours before the test, alcohol should be excluded and intense physical activity should be avoided.
• Do not eat or drink juice, milk or other beverages 8 hours before blood sampling. You can drink non-carbonated water. On the eve of the study, it is better to have a light, low-fat meal for dinner.
• 1-2 hours before the analysis, it is advisable not to smoke, avoid stress and physical exertion (running, fast climbing stairs).
• 15 minutes before taking blood, it is advisable to have a little rest: sit in the laboratory department, catch your breath, calm down.

Rules for taking blood from children :

• infants up to 1 year
• children under 7 years old

To monitor indicators in dynamics, you should take an analysis under the same conditions: in the same laboratory, at the same time of day. Women should take into account the phase of the menstrual cycle.

What can affect the result of the study

Medications and medical procedures may affect test results.

Do not donate blood immediately after physiotherapy, instrumental examination, X-ray or ultrasound examination, massage.

It is best to perform a blood test before starting medications or 10-14 days after they are discontinued. The nurse should be warned about the medications taken, as well as the doctor who performs the diagnosis or prescribes the treatment.

How the study is carried out and when will the result be ready

For analysis, blood is taken from a vein located on the elbow bend of the arm.

The study is carried out by the method of immunochemiluminescent analysis. The test result will be presented in a quantitative format: the concentration of vitamin B12 is given on the form in picograms per milliliter.

The analysis will be ready in 1 day if submitted on time: the abbreviated schedule of appointments can be found on the page of the desired laboratory department. If you take the test outside the schedule, the test completion time may be extended by 1-3 days.

What does a vitamin B12 test result mean

Only a doctor should interpret the result of the study based on all the data he has.

A blood level of vitamin B12 less than 140 pg/mL is considered low.

What is the norm for men

The norm of vitamin B12 for men depends on age:

• birth to 2 years: 293–1210 pg/mL;
• 2–3 years: 264–1220 pg/mL;
• 4–6 years: 245–1080 pg/mL;
• 7–9 years: 271–1170 pg/mL;
• 10–12 years: 183–1090 pg/mL;
• 13–16 years: 214–865 pg/mL;
• 17 years and older: 191-663 pg/mL.

What is the norm for women

The norm of vitamin B12 for women, as well as for men, depends on age:

• Birth to 2 years: 228-1510 pg/mL;
• 2–3 years: 416–1210 pg/mL;
• 4–6 years: 313–1410 pg/mL;
• 7–9 years: 247–1170 pg/mL;
• 10–12 years: 197–1020 pg/mL;
• 13–16 years: 182–878 pg/mL;
• 17 years and older: 191-663 pg/mL.

What low vitamin B12 values ​​indicate

Vitamin B12 deficiency is dangerous: it can lead to the development of anemia. Also, due to a lack of a vitamin, homocysteine ​​​​levels can increase. This significantly increases the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases, and in pregnant women – severe pathologies.

Symptoms suggestive of vitamin B12 deficiency :

• fatigue,
• palpitations,
• lethargy,
• shortness of breath,
• headache,
• pallor,
• loss of appetite,
• visual impairment,
• problems with memory and concentration,
• irritability,
• inflammation of the tongue,
• Numbness of hands and feet.

Sudden loss of vision may indicate vitamin B12 deficiency

Main causes of vitamin B12 deficiency :

• Malabsorption. This occurs with resection of the stomach, inflammatory diseases of the stomach and intestines, diseases of the pancreas, lack or absence of the internal factor of Castle, as well as alcohol abuse.
• Unbalanced diet. Vitamin B12 deficiency can develop in people who follow a vegetarian or vegan diet because this vitamin is found predominantly in animal products.
• Alcohol abuse.
• Long-term use of certain drugs. Oral contraceptives, colchicine, metformin, vitamin C supplements, aminosalicylic acid, omeprazole, some antibiotics make it difficult to absorb vitamin B12.
• Worm infestation. Worms in the intestines “take away” vitamin B12 from food, which can lead to its deficiency. For this reason, vitamin deficiency can develop in children.

What high vitamin B12 values ​​indicate

Normally, vitamin B12 does not accumulate in the body (its excess is excreted in the urine). If, according to the results of the analysis, an increase in its level is observed, then this is usually a consequence of the uncontrolled use of vitamin supplements.

Other possible causes of vitamin B12 excess are blood diseases (leukemia, polycythemia) or liver disease (hepatitis, cirrhosis), diabetes, AIDS.

At the same time, an increase in the content of vitamin B12 in the blood, as a rule, does not lead to complications.

Symptoms of vitamin B12 excess :

• headache;
• abdominal pain;
• dizziness, confusion;
• nausea;
• diarrhea;
• weakness.

What additional examinations are prescribed in case of deviation from the norm

If your blood levels of vitamin B12 are abnormal, your doctor may recommend checking other levels.

So, for the diagnosis of anemia, they can prescribe a general blood test with a study of the level of erythrocytes and reticulocytes in the blood and the determination of the average content and average concentration of hemoglobin in erythrocytes, the size of erythrocytes.

Complete blood count extended with leukocyte formula and reticulocytes (only venous blood)

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And in order to distinguish between B12-deficiency and folic acid deficiency anemia, it may be recommended to take a test for the level of folates – derivatives of folic acid – in the blood.

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Since the cause of vitamin B12 deficiency can be helminthic invasion, it is advisable to pass special tests.

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Cal 0 ₽ 9000 5 Examination of scrapings for enterobiasis

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A stool test may be ordered to check for intestinal dysbiosis, which may also interfere with normal absorption of vitamin B12.

Microbiological diagnostics of intestinal dysbacteriosis with determination of pathogen sensitivity to antibacterial drugs and bacteriophages

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It is also useful to assess the condition of the liver and kidneys.

Alanine aminotransferase (ALT)

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Aspartate aminotransferase (AST)

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How to maintain normal vitamin B12 levels

To maintain normal levels of vitamin B12, most people simply need to eat a nutritious and varied diet.

Thus, one egg contains approximately 0.6 mcg of vitamin B12, a serving of beef (85 g) – 1.4 mcg, and a serving of tuna (85 g) – 2.5 mcg. At the same time, the daily physiological need for vitamin B12 in adults is 3 mcg, in children – 1.4–3 mcg.

At the same time, older people produce less gastric juice and intrinsic factor Castle (a protein synthesized by stomach cells), which makes it difficult to absorb vitamin B12. Its deficiency is detected in every 50th person over 60 years old and in every 15th person over 70 years old. Therefore, older people are advised to take additional vitamin B12 – with dietary supplements and fortified foods.

The same recommendations are relevant for pregnant and lactating women: their need for the vitamin increases.

What foods contain vitamin B12: meat, organ meats, seafood and fish, dairy products and eggs

It is also important to properly prepare foods containing vitamin B12. Since it is water-soluble, it is washed out during cooking. To get the maximum amount of vitamin B12 from your food, it is best to fry or steam or grill it.

Sources

1. Vitamin B12 deficiency anemia: clinical guidelines / Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation. 2021.

Vitamin B12 deficiency symptoms

January 25, 2023 – Bhumika Singh, Webmedy Team

Update – July 12, 2023

1. Webmedy Blog
2. Health & Fitness
3. Food & Nutrition
4. Vitamin B12 deficiency symptoms

Vitamin B12 is an essential nutrient that your body needs for processes such as DNA synthesis, energy production, and brain and central nervous system function. It plays an important role in the formation of red blood cells. It plays an important role in the metabolism of every cell in the body, as well as in DNA synthesis. Vitamin B12 deficiency can cause anemia, fatigue, nerve damage, and other problems.

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Causes of vitamin B12 deficiency

• malabsorption 90 123

  Vitamin B12 malabsorption can be caused by many causes such as anemia in autoimmune gastritis, surgical removal of the stomach, chronic inflammation of the pancreas, intestinal parasites, genetic disorders, and certain medications.

  Because the ability to absorb B12 from food decreases with age, deficiency is more common in older people. However, B12 deficiency can also occur in children and young adults.

• Inadequate diet

  Vitamin B12 deficiency can be caused by malnutrition or improper diet, such as a vegetarian diet.

Vitamin B12 Deficiency Symptoms

Vitamin B12 is an essential nutrient for the proper functioning of the brain and nervous system, and for the formation of red blood cells. Vitamin B12 deficiency can cause a variety of symptoms.

Let’s look at the 5 main symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency.

• Fatigue and weakness

  Vitamin B12 is essential for the production of red blood cells, which are responsible for carrying oxygen from the lungs to the tissues of the body. When the body is deficient in vitamin B12, it can lead to a decrease in the number of red blood cells, leading to a condition called anemia.

  Anemia can cause a range of symptoms including fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath and dizziness. Oxygen is necessary for the production of energy in the body, and without it, the cells and tissues of the body cannot function normally. Shortness of breath occurs due to the fact that the body does not receive enough oxygen due to a decrease in the number of red blood cells. Dizziness can also occur due to a lack of oxygen in the brain.

  Vitamin B12 is involved in the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats and proteins, which are the main sources of energy in the body. Without enough vitamin B12, the body’s ability to produce energy from these nutrients is reduced, leading to fatigue and weakness.

• Neurological problems

  Studies have shown that vitamin B12 deficiency can cause changes in the structure and function of the brain, which can lead to cognitive decline and memory loss. Vitamin B12 plays an important role in the production of myelin, a fatty substance that forms a protective sheath around nerve fibers in the brain. Without enough vitamin B12, the myelin sheath can be damaged, causing problems with nerve impulse transmission and cognitive function.

  Vitamin B12 plays a role in the synthesis of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine, which are important for mood, memory and cognitive function. Without enough vitamin B12, the production of these neurotransmitters can be disrupted, which can lead to cognitive decline and memory loss.

  Nerve damage caused by vitamin B12 deficiency can cause numbness or tingling in the hands and feet. Vitamin B12 deficiency can cause difficulty walking and balance problems.

• Mouth and tongue problems

  Vitamin B12 is essential for the proper functioning of the cells in the mouth and digestive system. When the body is deficient in vitamin B12, it can lead to a condition called glossitis, which is an inflammation of the tongue. Glossitis causes swelling, redness, and soreness of the tongue, making it difficult and painful to eat or speak.

  Vitamin B12 deficiency can also lead to cold sores, which are small, painful sores that develop in the mouth. These sores can occur on the tongue, lips, gums, or inside of the cheeks. Vitamin B12 deficiency can weaken the immune system, making it easier for bacteria to infect the mouth and cause ulcers.

• Digestive problems

  Vitamin B12 plays an important role in the proper functioning of the digestive system, including the absorption of nutrients and the regulation of bowel movements. When the body is deficient in vitamin B12, it can lead to a change in bowel habits. Studies have shown that vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to gastrointestinal symptoms such as constipation, diarrhea, bloating, and loss of appetite. These symptoms may be related to disruption of the normal digestive processes, which can affect the movement of food through the intestines.

  Vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to a condition called bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine. It occurs when there is an overgrowth of bacteria in the small intestine, which can lead to gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhea, bloating, and abdominal pain.

• Vision problems

  Vitamin B12 is important for the proper functioning of the nervous system, including the nerves that control vision. When the body is deficient in vitamin B12, it can cause neurological symptoms, including vision problems. Research has shown that vitamin B12 deficiency can cause changes in the optic nerve, which is responsible for transmitting visual information from the eyes to the brain. This can lead to vision problems such as blurred vision, double vision or blurred vision.

Summary

Vitamin B12 supplements can interact with certain medications, such as metformin used for diabetes, proton pump inhibitors used for acid reflux, and some antibiotics. Taking more than the recommended dose of vitamin B12 can cause side effects such as acne, diarrhea, and upset stomach. Although vitamin B12 is generally considered safe, long-term use of high doses can cause skin reactions and problems such as anemia.

People also ask

What are the symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency?

Vitamin B12 deficiency symptoms may be subtle and vary from person to person. These may include fatigue, weakness, constipation, loss of appetite, weight loss, and megaloblastic anemia. Neurological problems may also occur, such as numbness and tingling in the hands and feet. Other symptoms include balance problems, depression, confusion, poor memory, and sore mouth or tongue.

How long does it take for B12 deficiency symptoms to appear?

How quickly symptoms of B12 deficiency appear can depend on many factors, including a person’s diet, age, and overall health. Typically, symptoms may appear within a few months to a year after the body’s stores of vitamin B12 begin to deplete. However, in some cases, it can take years for symptoms to appear, especially if the deficiency is caused by a gradual decrease in the ability to absorb B12.

Can vitamin B12 deficiency cause fatigue?

Yes, fatigue is one of the most common symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency. This is because the body needs B12 to produce red blood cells, which carry oxygen throughout the body. Without enough oxygen in the cells, a person can feel tired and weak.

What mental symptoms can vitamin B12 deficiency cause?

Vitamin B12 deficiency can cause a range of psychiatric symptoms, including depression, mood swings, confusion, and memory loss. In severe cases, this can lead to dementia. These effects are thought to be related to the role of vitamin B12 in brain function and neurotransmitter synthesis.

Is hair loss a sign of vitamin B12 deficiency?

Although less common, vitamin B12 deficiency can contribute to hair loss. B12 helps in the production of red blood cells, which carry oxygen to all cells in the body, including hair follicles. Without enough oxygen, hair follicles will not be able to grow new hair efficiently.

Can vitamin B12 deficiency cause skin problems?

Yes, vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to skin problems. These can include hyperpigmentation (dark, discolored areas of the skin), vitiligo (loss of skin color in patches), hair changes, and angular stomatitis (cracks at the corners of the mouth).

Can vitamin B12 deficiency cause anemia?

Yes, one of the most common consequences of vitamin B12 deficiency is a type of anemia called megaloblastic anemia. This is characterized by the production of larger than normal red blood cells that do not function properly, resulting in less oxygen being transported to the body’s cells.

Is shortness of breath a symptom of vitamin B12 deficiency?

Yes, shortness of breath can be a symptom of vitamin B12 deficiency. It is usually associated with anemia caused by oxygen deficiency, which results in the body’s cells not getting enough oxygen.

Can vitamin B12 deficiency cause weight gain or loss?

Vitamin B12 deficiency can sometimes lead to weight loss due to loss of appetite. However, it is less likely to cause weight gain. Weight changes are usually not the primary symptoms of a B12 deficiency and may also indicate other health problems.

How does vitamin B12 deficiency affect the digestive system?

Vitamin B12 deficiency can affect the digestive system, causing symptoms such as nausea, loss of appetite, constipation and weight loss. It can also lead to a swollen and inflamed tongue and mouth ulcers.

Can vitamin B12 deficiency cause neurological problems?

Yes, vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to neurological problems. These may include numbness and tingling in the arms and legs, balance problems, and depression. Severe, prolonged deficiency can even lead to permanent damage to the nervous system.

Is blurry vision a sign of vitamin B12 deficiency?

Blurred vision can occur with vitamin B12 deficiency due to optic neuropathy, a condition in which the optic nerve leading to the eye is damaged. This is a less common symptom, but it requires immediate attention to prevent long-term vision damage.

Can vitamin B12 deficiency cause muscle weakness?

Yes, muscle weakness can be a sign of vitamin B12 deficiency. This is usually due to anemia or low oxygen levels in the cells, which can make it difficult for the muscles to function optimally.

Is difficulty walking a sign of vitamin B12 deficiency?

Yes, difficulty walking can be a symptom of a severe vitamin B12 deficiency. This is often due to the neurological impact of the deficiency, which can affect balance and coordination.

Can vitamin B12 deficiency cause mood changes?

Yes, mood changes, including depression and irritability, can be symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency. Vitamin B12 plays a role in the production of brain chemicals that affect mood and other brain functions.

Can a lack of vitamin B12 cause tongue problems?

Yes, vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to a condition known as glossitis, in which the tongue becomes swollen, inflamed, and sometimes painful. It can also lead to changes in the way a person talks and eats.

Is numbness or tingling a symptom of vitamin B12 deficiency?

Yes, numbness or tingling in the hands and feet, also known as peripheral neuropathy, can be a symptom of vitamin B12 deficiency. This is due to the role that B12 plays in the healthy functioning of the nervous system.

Can vitamin B12 deficiency cause memory problems?

Yes, memory problems, confusion, and even dementia can be symptoms of severe vitamin B12 deficiency.