Key signs of a vitamin B12 deficiency – nutrient vital in older age
Dr Dawn Harper on signs of vitamin B12 and vitamin D deficiency
Nutritionist Dr Naomi Newman-Beinhart pointed out the symptoms of a vitamin B12 deficiency.
Some of the “key signs” of a vitamin B12 deficiency include fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and mouth ulcers.
Additional symptoms might include pins and needles in the hands and feet, low mood, and weakness.
Topping up on vitamin B12 is crucial for three main reasons, said Dr Newman-Beinhart.
Firstly, the benefit of an adequate B12 supply is that it “reduces brain shrinking as you age”.
READ MORE… You’ve been taking your vitamins wrong – expert’s advice for taking supplements
Dr Newman-Beinhart elaborated: “B12 is vital for brain health and all of your brain’s processes, including memory and cognition.
“Researchers have found that the size of your brain may shrink when you become B12 deficient.”
Vitamin B12 can also help to support mental wellbeing, added Dr Newman-Beinhar.
The expert explained: “Vitamin B12 is necessary to produce serotonin and dopamine, which are the mood-enhancing neurotransmitters.
Don’t miss…
Common bathroom issue could signal sepsis – can lead to ‘multiple organ failure'[LATEST]
Dad died after catching stomach bug on holiday in Cyprus with his family[REAL LIFE]
The first symptom of testicular cancer that can appear for some men[SYMPTOMS]
We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you’ve consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info
“Researchers have found that people with low levels of B12 are more likely to struggle with depression than people with normal levels of B12.”
However, “more research” is needed to understand this relationship better,].
Vitamin B12 can also improve energy levels by reducing a feeling of tiredness.
Dr Newman-Beinhart explained: “This vitamin also helps to convert your food into energy by breaking down the glucose from carbohydrates into adenosine triphosphate (ATP).”
One of the simplest ways to find out if you are deficient in vitamin B12 is to have a blood test arranged by your doctor.
If you want a quicker way to check your vitamin B12 levels, then the BetterYou Vitamin B12 At-Home Test Kit could work.
The BetterYou Vitamin B12 At-Home Test Kit is a quick and accurate way to test your active vitamin B12 levels easily, from the comfort of your own home, and includes a free supplement.
If you are deficient in vitamin B12, it is advised to inform your doctor.
Source: Read Full Article
