Vitamin B12 is a naturally occurring nutrient found in animal proteins, including meats, fish, poultry, eggs, and dairy. It plays an essential role in both the production of red blood cells and DNA, as well as ensuring that your nervous system functions properly. While there are a variety of factors that can lead to a B12 deficiency, diet and age are two of the most common. Explore common symptoms, complications, and treatments, such as B12 injections, in the guide below. 

What Happens When You're B12 Deficient?

In most cases, B12 deficiencies develop slowly, with symptoms gradually appearing, then intensifying over time. Since the symptoms vary, they're regularly overlooked or confused with other conditions, making B12 deficiency somewhat challenging to detect at its onset.  

Common symptoms include jaundice, or yellowing skin, numbness, or tingling in the hands, legs, and feet. Difficulty walking, including staggering or balance issues are also common in B12 deficiencies. You may also experience anemia, shortness of breath, weakness or fatigue, a swollen or inflamed tongue, memory loss, and cognitive issues, including difficulty thinking or reasoning. If your doctor suspects a B12 deficiency, they will typically perform blood tests to confirm the condition.

What Are the Treatment Options?

Treatment options will vary depending on the severity of your deficiency. Serious deficiencies are typically corrected through weekly B12 injections, or by taking a high-dose, daily B12 supplement. B12 deficiencies can be prevented in many individuals by consuming a nutrient-rich diet, including B12-rich foods such as eggs, poultry, fish, and red meat.

Those who follow a strict vegetarian or vegan diet can meet their B12 needs by incorporating bread, cereals, and grains that have been fortified with the essential nutrient, or by taking a daily supplement. Seniors are more prone to B12 deficiencies, as their body absorbs less of the nutrient as you age. To ensure adequate doses, experts recommend adults over the age of 50 take daily supplements to ensure they're receiving enough B12.

If you're experiencing signs of B12 deficiency, visit a Path to Natural Health in Issaquah, WA, to begin safe and effective B12 injections. With 25 years of experience in holistic medicine, their team specializes in providing homeopathic antidotes, acupuncture, and alternative treatments for a variety of ailments. Contact them today at (425) 270-3047 to schedule an appointment, or visit their website to learn more about their services.