Vitamin B12 is a water soluble nutrient needed by the human body to help maintain good health and functioning. According to the Mayo Clinic, vitamin B12 keeps nerve cells and red blood cells healthy and is necessary for the creation of DNA. It plays a role in making sure there is enough oxygen circulating through the blood in the body. An individual without enough of vitamin B12 in her system is said to have a vitamin B12 deficiency. Medline Plus, an online medical encyclopedia, states there are a number uncomfortable symptoms associated with a deficiency of this particular vital nutrient.
Gastrointestinal Symptoms Causes by Lack of Vitamin B12
An individual lacking enough vitamin B12 in her system may notice some stomach-related problems. A B12 deficiency can cause an individual to experience a noticeable drop in appetite. This in turn may lead to unexpected or unintentional weight loss. She may develop diarrhea or become extremely constipated for no apparent reason. An individual with a vitamin B12 deficiency may also notice bleeding in the gums, the color of the tongue in the mouth changing to red, and swelling of the tongue.
Loss of Energy and Vitamin B12 Deficiency
Feeling overly tired and fatigued can be a sign of a vitamin B12 deficiency. Normal physical activities may render an individual exhausted. Physical activities causing an unusual shortness of breath can also be a sign the body does not have enough of this particular vitamin.
Difficulty Thinking Normally Without Enough Vitamin B12
It is not unusual for a vitamin B12 deficiency to affect the way an individual thinks and mentally functions. He may become depressed without having a history or depression or a stressful trigger. He may have trouble concentrating and a difficult time remembering things. He may also find himself becoming confused more easily. Severe and long term deficiency can cause nerve damage that can result in the onset of dementia.
Other Various Symptoms Caused by a B12 Deficit
A deficiency of the B12 vitamin can the skin of an affected individual to become very pale. An individual may find she becomes light headed upon standing and loses balance easily. The hands and feet may develop a numb or tingly feeling in them that cannot be explained.
Anyone experiencing symptoms of a vitamin B12 deficiency should consult a doctor. Blood tests can be performed that help detect the problem and subsequent steps can be taken to bring vitamin B12 levels back up to normal. Treatment for the deficiency usually involves supplementation either in the form of a pill or a shot.
References:
Mayo Clinic.com "Vitamin B12", accessed on April 6, 2010
Medline Plus, "Anemia - B12 Deficiency", accessed on April 6, 2010
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