A lack of vitamin B12 can have a variety of effects on your body, resulting in problems with your nervous system, mind, and body. Vitamin B12 is mostly found in animal products including meat, dairy, and eggs. It is necessary for the formation of red blood cells, nerve cells, and DNA. Given that the body can’t produce this vital mineral on its own, vegetarians and vegans can consume fortified meals or pills to get the Vitamin B12 levels they need. The elderly in particular should have their vitamin B12 levels examined because they are more likely to become deficient in it.
Due to several dietary changes occurring in our culture, where more individuals are avoiding dairy products and adhering to a strict vegetarian diet, vitamin B12 insufficiency is becoming more prevalent in today’s society. This illness is particularly prevalent in Indian vegans who avoid dairy goods like cheese, fish, meat, and eggs, which are the main sources of vitamin B12 according to numerous surveys.
The ailments that can result from a vitamin B12 shortage are listed below.
Symptoms of a lack of vitamin B12: Generalized weakness, shortness of breath, mouth ulcers, loose stools, finger discoloration, forgetfulness, urinary discomfort, becoming regularly depressed, being unable to focus at work, and hair loss are typically the symptoms.
A potential health issue in a vitamin B12 deficiency:
Cardiac conditions: When you have low levels of vitamin B12, you are more likely to develop cardiac disorders including coronary artery disease and peripheral vascular disease. This is because either these vital nutrients are not being absorbed or you are not eating a diet high in vitamin B12.
Psychological problems: Weakness, diminished feeling in the hands and feet, dementia, impaired taste, vision problems, and irregularities in the urinary system are all symptoms of neurological illnesses.
Anaemia: Anaemia can have many different reasons, one of which is a vitamin B12 shortage. To determine the precise cause, more testing must be conducted.
Pregnancy problems: Vitamin B12 levels should be evaluated in all pregnant women since deficiencies might result in abnormal fetuses.
Worm infestation: Due to hyperoxia and increased stomach motility brought on by diarrhea, helminthic diseases may also reduce the absorption of vitamin B12.
A change in lifestyle can help people who lack vitamin B12
– As the only source, encouraging vegetarians to consume dairy products is vital.
– It is recommended to limit alcohol consumption.
– It is advised that all vegans have their vitamin B12 levels evaluated. If levels are low, the person needs to be treated with medication both orally and by injection.