Vitamin B12 isTolfioow for the human body. Since it cannot be formed by itself, we have to absorb the nutrient through food. But what happens if we don’t meet the daily needs? We explain which 5 symptoms indicate a vitamin B12 deficiency.
Vitamin B-12 is one of the most important vitamins for the human body, as it is involved in cell division, blood formation and nerve function, among other things. It is one of the few vitamins that the body cannot produce itself, which is why it is essential to get it from food. The nutrient is mainly found in animal products such as meat, fish, eggs or dairy products. According to the consumer center, a daily vitamin B12 intake of 4 µg is recommended for young people and adults. But what happens if you don’t cover them?
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Vitamin B12 deficiency: What are the causes?
A healthy, balanced diet that includes meat, fish, and dairy products usually meets the need for vitamin B-12. It is particularly difficult for vegans who do not eat any animal products to meet their daily needs. But other factors can also lead to a vitamin B12 deficiency. These include taking certain medications, excessive alcohol consumption, anorexia, chronic inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn’s disease and chronic kidney or liver diseases.
Vitamin B12 deficiency: 5 symptoms
1. Headache
Headaches are uncomfortable and can be a burden in our everyday life. They are triggered by a wide variety of complaints such as dehydration, stress or sleep disorders. A vitamin B12 deficiency can also be the cause: Among other things, vitamin B12 is important in the body for the production of pain-relieving substances.
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2. Depressive moods
Many people suffer from depressive moods. They can have various causes: These include hormonal changes, stress and worries, stress, but also a vitamin B12 deficiency. The reason? Vitamin B-12 is one of the B vitamins that ensure normal nerve function and is involved in the release of the happiness hormone serotonin, among other things.
3. Hair loss
Hair loss can be a huge burden for sufferers. Even worse when the exact cause is unclear. Hormonal changes are often behind the symptom – these include stopping the pill, pregnancy or menopause. However, nutrient deficiencies can also lead to hair loss and skin dysfunction, including vitamin B12 deficiency.
4. Sensory disturbances in arms and legs
If it tingles in your arms or legs, you get a fright at first. But what is behind the symptom? The sensory disturbances are often a sign of a vitamin B12 deficiency, since the vitamin is significantly involved in nerve function. In rare cases, a phosphorus deficiency can also be the cause.
5. Fatigue
Tiredness and exhaustion can also indicate a vitamin B12 deficiency. Vitamin B12 supports the energy metabolism and ensures that we feel less tired and powerless. In addition to fatigue, concentration and memory disorders can also occur. Anyone who is unusually often tired over a longer period of time without there being an apparent cause should consult a doctor, as other diseases such as an underactive thyroid gland can also be behind the symptom.
