Vitamin B12 is an essential nutrient that supports several bodily functions. It plays a crucial role in several health aspects, such as making DNA, production of Red Blood Cells (RBCs), helps in increasing the metabolism, and growth of nerve and brain cells, says Dr Chandana R Gowda, Senior Specialist - Neurology, Aster CMI Hospital, Bangalore, further adding that vitamin B12 deficiency can cause anaemia and and may lead to irreversible damage to the nervous system. In an interaction with the OnlyMyHealth team, she explains how vitamin B12’s link to nerve health can impact one’s movement and walking style.
Impact Of Vitamin B12 On Nerve Health
Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is said to promote nerve health. It plays a significant role in regenerating nerve fibres and repairing nerve damage. According to a study published by the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, vitamin B12 deficiency is clinically recognised to be associated with neurological disorders, such as dementia, cognitive impairment, and depression. The same study notes: “B12 deficiency may cause demyelination of nerves in the peripheral and central nervous system and has been associated with peripheral neuropathy, loss of sensation in peripheral nerves, and weakness in lower extremities in older adults.”
Another study published in the British Medical Journal (BMJ) found that severe Vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to "permanent neurologic damage".
Common Symptoms Of Vitamin B12 Deficiency
Low levels of vitamin B12 can lead to several symptoms. These include:
- Weakness
- Fatigue
- Loss of appetite
- Sudden weight loss
- Tingling, numbness, and burning in hands and feet
- Difficulty in walking
In certain cases, individuals with low B12 levels may experience psychological symptoms. These include:
- Depressive symptoms
- Irritability
- Emotional changes
“If left unattended, this may lead to shortness of breath, irritability, vision problems, diarrhoea, palpitations, depression, and complex health issues,” shared Dr Gowda.
Also Read: Magnesium Deficiency: Warning Signs Of Low Magnesium Levels
How Vitamin B12 Deficiency Affects Movement?
According to Dr Gowda, B12 deficiency may lead to weakness in muscles causing varied walking-related issues such as feet numbness, tingling, and burning feet causing difficulty in walking. “It may also cause unsteady walking, inability to walk, or ataxia, which is the loss of physical ability,” she added.
B12 deficiency has to be immediately treated to avoid irreversible nerve damage, she warned.
Ways To Improve Vitamin B12 levels In The Body
If you experience any of the above-mentioned symptoms, it is recommended to get the B12 levels checked, and if required, depending on the severity of the condition, your health expert may prescribe B12 shots or B12 supplements. However, healthy vitamin B12 levels can be achieved through a nutritious balanced diet. This can include:
- Meat
- Fortified foods
- Fish
- Milk
- Milk-based products like yoghurt and cheese
Conclusion
Vitamins and minerals play an important role in maintaining our overall health. Vitamin B12 is one of the most essential nutrients for our body and therefore, fulfilling the daily requirement of this particular vitamin is of utmost importance. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Office of Dietary Supplements, average daily intakes of vitamin B12 from food are 5.94 mcg for men aged 20 and older and 3.78 mcg for women. For children aged 2–19, mean daily intakes of vitamin B12 from food range from 3.76 mcg to 4.55 mcg.