GP Sheds Light on Overlooked Vitamin B12 Deficiency and Its Symptoms
A prominent general practitioner has highlighted an often-missed nutritional deficiency and its associated symptoms, which could assist individuals in identifying the condition. According to NHS statistics, merely 6% of people under the age of 60 and 20% of those over 60 are impacted by this issue, with an additional 11% comprising individuals following vegan diets.
Recognising the Signs of Vitamin B12 Deficiency
Dr Suraj Kukadia, widely known as Dr Sooj, explained in a recent TikTok video: "What occurs in vitamin B12 deficiency? Numerous symptoms are linked to it, and they can be highly non-specific, but they encompass sensations like persistent fatigue and tiredness.
"You might experience pins and needles, confusion, and memory difficulties. It can also lead to muscle weakness and a severely sore and inflamed tongue."
Official NHS Guidance on Symptoms and Causes
Official NHS advice further cautions that vitamin B12 deficiency may induce shortness of breath, indigestion, loss of appetite, palpitations, and diarrhoea. While some individuals develop the deficiency due to insufficient B12 in their diet, the most prevalent cause is an autoimmune disorder termed pernicious anaemia.
This condition essentially prompts the immune system to assault cells in the stomach, initiating a reaction that hinders the body from absorbing vitamin B12. The precise cause remains uncertain, but it is more commonly observed in women around 60 years old, people with a family history of the issue, and those with other autoimmune conditions, such as vitiligo.
Treatment Options and Dietary Sources
"Most instances of vitamin B12 and folate deficiency can be readily managed with injections or tablets to replenish the absent vitamins," the NHS recommends. "Vitamin B12 supplements are typically administered via injection initially.
"Subsequently, depending on whether your B12 deficiency is diet-related, you will need either B12 tablets between meals or regular injections. Treatments might continue until your vitamin B12 levels enhance, or you may require lifelong therapy."
Anyone with health concerns is urged to consult a GP and pursue a timely diagnosis. Although many symptoms ameliorate with treatment, some complications arising from the deficiency could be 'irreversible'.
Essential Food Sources of Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12 is integral to numerous vital bodily functions, including red blood cell production and nervous system maintenance. Adults aged 19 to 64 require approximately 1.5 micrograms of vitamin B12 daily.
Sources of vitamin B12 include:
- Meat
- Fish
- Milk
- Cheese
- Eggs
- Some fortified breakfast cereals
If you consume meat, fish, or dairy products, your diet should supply adequate vitamin B12. However, since vitamin B12 is not naturally present in foods like fruits, vegetables, and grains, vegans might not obtain sufficient amounts.
