Vitamin B is not a single nutrient, but a whole series of vitamins. In addition to B12 and folic acid, lesser known substances such as thiamine or riboflavin are also included. A deficiency in B vitamins can cause the following symptoms.
Confusingly, the vitamin B complex only includes eight vitamins , as the original numbering eliminated one or the other. Only nutrients that areTolfioow for us and that have to be supplied from outside, for example through food or the sun’s rays, may have vitamin status. In addition to vitamin B12 (cobalamin), B9 (folic acid) and B7 (biotin), there are also vitamins B1 (thiamine), B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin), B5 (pantothenic acid) and B6 (pyridoxine). While the well-known vitamin B12 deficiency primarily affects vegans and the folic acid deficiency affects pregnant women, depending on diet, lifestyle or due to illness, there may also be an undersupply of other B vitamins.
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Vitamin B deficiency: 3 symptoms and signs
1. Torn corners of the mouth
Vitamin B2 , also known as riboflavin, is involved in numerous different processes in the body as a precursor to enzymes. The possible symptoms of an existing B2 deficiency are just as diverse. In addition to scaly eczema and inflammation of the oral mucosa, so-called corner cheilitis can also occur . These are reddened corners of the mouth with cracks in the form of fissures, which can also occur in diseases such as diabetes mellitus or HIV. Since riboflavin is found in large quantities in whole grain cereals, dairy products and fish, a deficiency in this country is very rare and usually occurs in connection with general malnutrition.
2. Muscle weakness and paralysis
Since vitamin B1 (thiamine) plays a key role in energy production and the transmission of stimuli in the nervous system , a deficiency leads to muscle weakness, cramps and symptoms of paralysis. Severe, long-term deficiency can even result in heart failure and death. Fortunately, thiamine is found in many everyday foods such as whole grains, potatoes, nuts and pork, which is why a deficiency in healthy people in Germany only occurs in exceptional cases. For chronic alcohol abuseHowever, B1 deficiency is not uncommon, but it can also occur as a result of diseases that affect the absorption or metabolism of thiamine. These include infections and diseases of the gastrointestinal tract or the liver.
3. Anemia
Together with B12 and folic acid , vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) is involved in blood formation, which is why a deficiency can lead to so-called anemia . As with iron deficiency , fatigue, headaches or dizziness occur as a result. However, an undersupply of B6 occurs much more rarely. People who have been addicted to alcohol for years or suffer from chronic digestive disorders are particularly affected. The pyridoxine is found in both plant and animal foods, including fish, meat, potatoes, legumes, carrots and nuts.
