From Memory Deficit To Loss Of Smell And Taste: Indicators Of B12 Deficiency You Must Look Out For

Vitamin B12 deficiency is surprisingly common and can lead to a range of subtle to serious health issues. From feeling inexplicably tired to experiencing strange neurological symptoms, low B12 levels can affect everything from your energy levels to your brain function. 

But how do you know if you’re lacking this crucial vitamin? Let’s break it down and explore what experts say about identifying and managing this often-overlooked condition.

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Why Is Vitamin B12 So Important?

In a conversation with the OnlyMyHealth team, our expert Dr. Sunita Kapoor, Director & Laboratory Head, City X-Ray and Scan Clinic Pvt. Ltd., shared with us that Vitamin B12 is an essential component that helps your body maintain the health of its nerve and blood cells. Vitamin B12 deficiency occurs due to dietary deficiency (more common with vegetarian diet ) or inability of body to absorb vitamin B12. 

It is also known as cobalamin, and is a powerhouse nutrient found in meat, fish, dairy products, and fortified foods. It plays a critical role in red blood cell production, proper nerve function, and DNA synthesis. Without adequate B12, your body struggles to function optimally, which can lead to a cascade of health issues.

Who Is More Prone To Vitamin B12 Deficiency?

Our expert, Dr. Kapoor shared with us that the following individuals are at risk.

• Vegans and vegetarians
• Malabsorptive disorders
• Autoimmune conditions like pernicious anemia
• Chronic alcoholics
• Elderly individuals

Common Symptoms Of Vitamin B12 Deficiency

According to Dr. Kapoor, when B12 levels drop, the body can exhibit a range of symptoms. Here are some of the most recognised signs:

• Fatigue and Weakness: Feeling drained even after a good night’s sleep? This might be due to your body producing abnormally large red blood cells (a condition known as megaloblastic anaemia), which can’t carry oxygen efficiently.
• Pale Or Jaundiced Skin: Low B12 levels can give your skin a pale or yellowish tint due to disrupted red blood cell production.
• Shortness of Breath and Dizziness: Reduced oxygen delivery to tissues can leave you feeling breathless or lightheaded.

Lesser-known Indicators To Watch Out For

Not all signs of B12 deficiency are obvious. Some lesser-known symptoms can mimic other conditions, making diagnosis tricky.

• Neurological signs and symptoms: Numbness or tingling in your hands and feet, balance issues, vision issues, difficulty remembering things or getting confused, and difficulty walking or speaking normally. 

• Psychological symptoms: Depression, irritability, and abnormal behaviour changes.

• Cognitive Impairment: Struggling with memory, concentration, or experiencing mood swings? Low B12 can affect brain function, sometimes presenting as depression or cognitive decline.
• Vision Problems: Though rare, blurry vision or visual disturbances can occur when B12 deficiency affects the optic nerve.
• Oral and Dental Issues: A burning sensation in the mouth, mouth ulcers, or a swollen tongue can also be linked to low B12.
• Reproductive Health Issues: B12 plays a role in fertility. Irregular menstrual cycles or fertility challenges could be signs worth discussing with your doctor.
• Impaired Taste and Smell: A diminished sense of taste or smell might be a subtle indicator of low B12 levels.

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Don’t Wait For Severe Symptoms

Vitamin B12 insufficiency can be difficult to detect since the symptoms are not always present or are similar to those of other nutritional deficiencies. 

Dr. Kapoor explains that routine blood tests are often performed by healthcare practitioners to detect vitamin B12 deficiency in persons who are at high risk of getting it:

• CBC (Complete blood count with Hb, MCV,MCH,MCHC)
• Serum vitamin B12 levels (Vitamin B12 deficiency is diagnosed when the level of vitamin B12 in the blood is less than 150 pg/ mL)
• Serum homocysteine and methylmalonic  acid

Regular screening with these simple affordable blood tests can help prevent any serious underlying manifestation and thus should be a part of your regular health checkup.

How To Combat Vitamin B12 Deficiency

• Incorporate B12-rich foods like meat, fish, dairy, and fortified cereals.
• If dietary intake isn’t enough, B12 supplements may be necessary after necessary consultation with a doctor.
• If you fall into a high-risk group, get regular blood tests to monitor your B12 levels.

Bottomline

Vitamin B12 deficiency is more common than you might think, but it doesn’t have to take a toll on your health. By recognising the signs and seeking expert advice, you can take charge of your well-being and keep your energy, brain, and nerves functioning at their best.