Vitamin B12 is one of the most important vitamins for the human body, as many important vital processes in the body depend on it.
Vitamin B12 is necessary for the production of red blood cells. It also enters into the synthesis of DNA, RNA, amino acids and proteins and ensures the functioning of the nervous system.
Fish, meat, poultry, dairy products, and eggs are high in vitamin B12. The best source for it is the liver of mackerel and beef. However, it turns out that many people suffer from a deficiency of this vitamin and even anemia, especially the elderly, vegetarians, diabetics and those who take antacids.
But it is difficult to diagnose a deficiency of this vitamin in the body, but there are signs that a person can identify on their own without testing.
Skin color - the color of the skin in people with vitamin B12 deficiency is pale or yellowish. This is related to the lack of red blood cells, which are damaged, which leads to an increase in bilirubin in the liver, as a result of the decomposition of dead red blood cells. An increase in the concentration of bilirubin in the body causes yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes.
Permanent fatigue and weakness - Permanent weakness and fatigue is one of the important signs that indicate a lack of vitamin B12 in the body, and the reason for this is also due to the lack of red blood cells, which leads to hypoxia and a permanent feeling of drowsiness, shortness of breath and dizziness.
Disruption of the nervous system - one of the properties of vitamin B12 is the protection of nerve fibers. Therefore, when its deficiency in the body causes a disturbance in the functions of the nervous system, which appears in the form of disturbed sensations, chills, burning and tingling. Deficiency of this vitamin for a long time can lead to problems with balance and change in gait, which is especially dangerous for the elderly.
Inflammation of the tongue , another sign that also indicates a lack of vitamin B12 in the body, which is accompanied by pain in the tongue and change in its color and texture, and the person may also suffer from itching in the mouth or a tingling sensation in the tongue.
Optic nerve damage - Vitamin B12 deficiency in the body may cause damage to the optic nerve, which leads to poor vision and blurred vision (optic neuropathy) due to a defect in the transmission of signals from the eye to the brain.
Mood disorder - Mood disorders are also attributed to a lack of vitamin B12 in the body. Chronic deficiency can lead to depression and dementia.
Dr. Inna Aminova, a Russian nutrition expert, points out that a deficiency of this vitamin may cause high body temperature and fever. She advises paying attention to symptoms such as bad body odor, loss of appetite, back pain and periodic headaches.
Accordingly, when noticing these signs, a person should consult a doctor, in order to diagnose the deficiency of this important vitamin early, and treat it. The diet should also include foods rich in vitamin B12.
Source: RIA Novosti
0 Comments