Vitamin B12 is an essential nutrient that plays a crucial role in several important body functions, including the production of red blood cells, the proper functioning of the nervous system, and every cell in the body's metabolism. It is also necessary for the synthesis of DNA, (1) the body's genetic material.
Low B12 symptoms
If your vitamin B12 levels are low,
you may experience a range of symptoms, including,
1. Fatigue
and weakness:
Vitamin B12 is necessary for the
production of energy, so a deficiency can lead to feelings of fatigue and
weakness.
2. Anemia: Â Â Â
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Vitamin B12 is necessary for the
production of red blood cells, which carry oxygen to the body's tissues. A
deficiency can lead to anemia, a condition in which there are not enough red
blood cells to meet the body's needs.
3. Neurological
symptoms:
Vitamin B12 is necessary for the
proper functioning of the nervous system. A deficiency can lead to neurological
symptoms, such as numbness, tingling, and difficulty walking.
4. Mood
changes:
Vitamin B12 is necessary for the
production of neurotransmitters, which are chemicals that carry messages
between cells in the body. A deficiency can lead to mood changes, such as
depression and irritability.
5. Memory
problems:
Vitamin B12 is necessary for the
proper functioning of the brain. A deficiency can lead to memory problems, such
as difficulty remembering things.
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Vitamin b12 vegetables
Foods derived from animals, like eggs,
fish, meat, and poultry, as well as dairy products, naturally contain vitamin
B12. It is not found in plant-based foods. However, some plant-based foods,
such as fortified cereals, plant-based milk, and nutritional yeast, are often
fortified with vitamin B12.
Here is a list of some plant-based foods
that may be fortified with vitamin B12,
1. Fortified
cereals:
Many portions of cereal, including
some brands of oatmeal and whole grain cereals, are fortified with vitamin B12.
2. Plant-based
milk:
Some plant-based milk, such as soy
milk and almond milk are fortified with vitamin B12. (2)
3. Nutritional
yeast:
Nutritional yeast is a type of yeast
that is often used as a condiment or seasoning. It is a good source of vitamin
B12 for vegans and vegetarians.
The vitamin B12 content of fortified
plant-based foods can vary, so it is a good idea to check the nutrition label
to see how much vitamin
B12 is in a serving.
If you follow a vegan or vegetarian
diet and are concerned about your vitamin B12 intake, you may want to consider
taking a vitamin B12 supplement.
Final Note
You can consider getting your vitamin
B12 levels checked if you are experiencing any of these symptoms, as a
deficiency can be treated with supplements or injections of vitamin B12.
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