10 Signs That You May Have a Vitamin B12 Deficiency

Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is an essential nutrient that plays a crucial role in various bodily functions. It is involved in the formation of red blood cells, nerve function, DNA synthesis, and the metabolism of proteins and fats. Since our bodies cannot produce vitamin B12, we rely on dietary sources or supplements to meet our daily requirements. Deficiency in this vital nutrient can lead to a range of health issues.

10 Common Signs and Symptoms of Vitamin B12 Deficiency

These symptoms don't usually come on all at once. B12 deficiency tends to happen gradually, and some of its neurologic effects may occur long before anemia is evident in a blood test. This is one of the reasons that those early warning signs are overlooked. You can have your B12 level checked with a blood test if you're experiencing any of these signs.

Can B12 deficiency cause numbness and tingling?

1. Fatigue and weakness: Feeling unusually tired or weak is one of the most common early B12 deficiency signs. This fatigue may be accompanied by a lack of energy.

2. Anemia: A B12 deficiency can lead to a type of anemia called megaloblastic anemia, which can cause symptoms such as pale skin, shortness of breath, and dizziness.

3. Numbness and tingling: Numbness, tingling, or a "pins and needles" sensation, especially in the hands and feet, is a common neurological symptom of B12 deficiency.

4. Difficulty walking or balance problems: Some people with severe B12 deficiency may experience difficulty walking, balance issues, or a sensation of unsteadiness.

5. Cognitive and mood changes: B12 deficiency can affect your brain function, leading to memory problems, mood disturbances (such as depression or irritability), and difficulty concentrating.

6. Glossitis: Inflammation of the tongue (glossitis) can occur, leading to a sore, red, and swollen tongue.

7. Mouth ulcers: B12 deficiency can sometimes cause painful mouth ulcers or sores in the corners of the mouth.

8. Vision problems: Although less common, some people may experience vision changes or optic nerve damage due to a severe B12 deficiency.

9. Heart palpitations: Irregular heartbeat or palpitations can be associated with a severe deficiency.

10. Digestive issues: B12 malabsorption symptoms can be caused by conditions that affect the absorption of the vitamin in the digestive system, such as pernicious anemia or gastrointestinal disorders. Symptoms may include diarrhea, constipation, or other digestive problems.

It is important to remember that these symptoms can be caused by various other medical conditions as well, so it is essential to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis if you suspect a B12 deficiency. If left untreated, severe B12 deficiency can lead to serious neurological and health problems, so timely diagnosis and treatment are crucial. Treatment typically involves vitamin B12 supplementation through injections, oral supplements, or dietary changes.

Taking an oral supplement is a simple way to address vitamin B12 deficiency. There are many forms, including sublingual tablets, liquid and chewables. Consult with one of our nutrition advisors to find out what type of vitamin B12 is best for you.

Choosing a Vitamin B12 Supplement

A vitamin B12 dietary supplement comes in several forms, and the right one depends on how well you absorb it. Most of them come as sublingual tablets, liquids, chewables, and capsules. As a food supplement vitamin B12 is generally well tolerated, though absorption varies from person to person. We’ll help you choose the right form and dose for your needs with our Nutrition Counsellors.

The Vegan and Plant-Based B12 Gap

Here's the catch for plant-based eaters, since B12 is actually hard to come by. It’s made by bacteria and enters our food chain through animal products, so there isn’t much of it in a purely plant-based diet. That's why a vegan vitamin B12 supplement is often recommended for anyone skipping meat, dairy, and eggs. It's a simple step that may help support healthy levels over time.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to use super vitamina B12 5500?

You may have seen high-dose products labeled around 5,500 mcg. Follow the directions on your specific label, since forms and serving sizes vary quite a bit between brands. Most B12 supplements are taken once daily, and sublingual or liquid forms are usually held under the tongue before swallowing. Since B12 is water-soluble, your body tends to clear what it doesn't use, but it's still smart to check with your practitioner on the right dose for you.

Vitamina B12 why not natural?

Great question. B12 in supplements is often the synthetic form cyanocobalamin, which is stable and well studied. Methylcobalamin and hydroxocobalamin are considered more "natural" forms your body uses directly, and both are widely available. None of these are truly plant-derived, since B12 is made by bacteria and reaches the food chain mostly through animal products. That's why plant-based eaters generally need a supplement to close the gap.

When Numbness and Tingling Set In?

One of the more telling neurological clues is numbness or a "pins and needles" feeling in the hands and feet. B12 helps maintain the protective myelin sheath around your nerves, so low levels are associated with tingling, weakness, and unsteady balance. These signs can build slowly and are easy to brush off. If they linger, it's worth a conversation with your practitioner.

Why do we need vitamin B12?

Vitamin B12 plays a key role in the production of red blood cells, in maintaining a healthy nervous system, in building DNA, and in converting food into energy. It cannot be manufactured by the body, so vitamin B12 in the blood comes from either dietary sources or supplements.

Who Is Most at Risk of Cobalamin Deficiency?

Some groups run low more often than others. Cobalamin deficiency symptoms are most common in older adults. People who have had gut surgery are also at risk, as are those with pernicious anemia, which blocks absorption. Some medications lower levels too. If any of these fit you, regular blood tests may help support catching a cobalamin deficiency early.

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.