Vitamin B12 does a lot for your body and is a very important nutrient. As you age, your body's ability to absorb B12 from foods decreases. B12 is, however, an important catalyst for regulating many bodily functions. The effects of a B12 deficiency in the body can range from intense fatigue to blurry vision. Here are a few signs you're seriously lacking in B12. If you have the following symptoms, run by to your doctor and get a test to find out.
1. You're always tired
No matter how many hours you slept for at night, you can barely stay awake during the day even after your cup of coffee - and you're constantly feeling tired. This might be because your body is not getting enough B12. Your body relies on Vitamin B12 to make red blood cells which carry oxygen throughout your body. If there isn't enough B12, there isn't enough oxygen reaching your organs, therefore making you feel tired and fatigued no matter what you do.
2. You experience a pins-and-needles sensation on your limbs
A lack of oxygen in your cells could also result in nerve damage. B12 plays an important role in the production of myelin, which insulates your nerves and is critical to your nervous system function.The pins-and-needles sensation occurs mostly in the form of prickling in your hands and feet. While the lack of B12 is not the only cause for this, it is one of the major factors.
3. You forget things
A lack of Vitamin B12 can also mean faint or very weak memory. Low levels of B12 could cause damage to the brain tissue and interfere with signals to and from your brain. So if you find yourself forgetting where you put your keys or your co-workers name more often than seems normal, get yourself checked for the lack of B12.
4. You feel dizzy or lose balance easily
Feeling short of breath or a bit dizzy when you exert yourself slightly is another sign of B12 deficiency. A lack of Vitamin B12 can be a factor contributing to anemia in some, further causing weakness.
5. You feel stressed or anxious all the time
Yes, a lack of Vitamin B12 can mess with your mental health. Low B12 may affect the production of mood-regulating neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine. In fact, according to this research, Vitamin B12 insufficiencies have been associated with increased risk of depression.
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Do any of the scenarios outlined above sound familiar? Do not wait to get yourself examined by a doctor, if they do.
