The older you get, the harder it is for your body to properly absorb vitamin B12., which may lead to deficiency.
Also known as cobalamin, Vitamin B12 is a water-soluble vitamin used by the body as a cofactor in synthesizing DNA as well as fatty acid and amino acid metabolism.
The human body needs B12 to form red blood sales and DNA. This vitamin also aids the functioning and development of the brain and nerve cells.
Like with most vitamins, Vitamin B12 deficiency could affect the proper functioning of the human body. But how do you know your body has a shortage of Vitamin B12 deficiency? These are 7 signs to look out for:
- Numbness
One common symptom of Vitamin B12 deficiency is numbness; this is because a shortage of B12 may damage the protective sheath that covers your nerves. Hence your hands, feet, and legs may begin to feel like they’re on pins and needles. This symptom may also be a sign of an underlying condition like celiac, Crohn’s, and other gut illnesses, which makes it harder for the body to absorb B12.
- Fogginess
Memory problems, confusion, and in more serious cases, depression and dementia, may be a symptom of Vitamin B12 deficiency.
- Weakness
Vitamin B12 deficiency may also affect your balance. It leaves you light-headed and tired and your muscles weak.
- Smooth tongue
Medically called atrophic glossitis, Vitamin B12 deficiency may cause the tiny bumps on your tongue (papillae) to start to waste away, causing your tongue to look smooth and glossy.
Heart palpitations
Is your heart skipping a beat of racing every so often? This might be a sign that something’s wrong.
- Cold
A vitamin B12 deficiency means that you don’t have healthy red blood cells to move oxygen around the body (anemia), leaving you shivering, particularly in your hands and feet.
- Headache
Headaches and migraines are additional signs of a B12 deficiency.
So, consider getting regular checkups to determine how much B12 is in your body and pay even closer attention to symptoms you notice.
Remember that doctors recommend 2.4 micrograms of B12 daily, and your body passes out the rest through your urine.
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