Vitamin B12 is one of the essential vitamins that your body needs to function well. It plays a crucial role in the formation of red blood cells, nerve cells, and DNA. However, many people around the world lack this vitamin.

The deficiency of vitamin B12 can cause several health issues such as fatigue, weakness, depression, and even permanent nerve damage. Therefore, it is essential to identify early signs of vitamin B12 deficiency that can help you to take necessary actions. Here are five questions that can help you assess if you lack vitamin B12.

Question 1: Do you feel tired and weak all the time?

One of the classic symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency is fatigue and weakness. If you feel sluggish most of the time and have difficulty in doing routine tasks, there are chances that you lack vitamin B12.

Question 2: Do you experience tingling or numbness in your hands and feet?

Another common sign of vitamin B12 deficiency is a tingling or numbness sensation in your hands and feet. This happens because vitamin B12 helps in maintaining the protective cover of your nerves, and its deficiency can cause damage to the nerve cells.

Question 3: Do you have trouble remembering things?

Vitamin B12 deficiency can impair your cognitive abilities too. If you have trouble remembering things or feel like you are in a brain fog most of the time, it could be a sign of vitamin B12 deficiency.

Question 4: Do you experience dizziness or lightheadedness?

Vitamin B12 deficiency can also affect your balance and coordination. If you experience dizziness or lightheadedness, it could be due to a lack of vitamin B12 in your body.

Question 5: Do you eat a vegan or vegetarian diet?

Vitamin B12 is mainly found in animal-based foods such as meat, fish, and dairy products. Therefore, if you follow a vegan or vegetarian diet, you have a higher risk of vitamin B12 deficiency.

Vegetarians who consume dairy and eggs still need to be aware of their B12 intake as the vitamin is not found in high levels in these foods.

The Results

If you answered “yes” to two or more questions, there are chances that you lack vitamin B12 in your body. It is highly recommended to consult a doctor if you notice any of these symptoms.

Your doctor will perform a blood test to measure the levels of vitamin B12 in your blood and recommend an appropriate treatment plan if necessary. In some cases, oral supplements or injections may be required to replenish the levels of vitamin B12 in your body.