LIFESTYLE Health Tips: Vitamin B12 Definitely Can be Deadly! Understanding Causes, Symptoms and Remedies DNP NEWS DESK Feb 13, 2024 11:38 GMT Vitamin B12, just like protein, calcium, and iron, is a powerhouse nutrient keeping your body healthy and strong. But a lack of this crucial vitamin can lead to weakness and a host of health concerns. Here's why B12 matters and how to keep your levels in check: B12: Beyond Glowing Skin, It's Brain & Nerve Power! Dr. Priyanka Sehrawat, a leading neurologist, warns that B12 deficiency isn't just about skin issues. It can lead to: Recurring mouth ulcers: Those painful sores keep popping up? B12 might be the culprit. Nerve problems and damage: Tingling, burning, or numbness in hands and feet can be signs of nerve troubles linked to B12 deficiency. Memory loss: This can be especially concerning for younger individuals (20-40 years old) as B12 deficiency can impact brain function. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Dr.Priyanka Sehrawat (@docpriyankasehrawat) Sneaky Culprits Behind Low B12: Several factors can lead to B12 deficiency, including: Diet: Strict vegan or vegetarian diets lacking animal products, a common B12 source. Digestive issues: Conditions like Crohn's disease or celiac disease can hinder B12 absorption. Age: As we age, our ability to absorb B12 naturally declines. Where's the B12 Buzz? Your Food Choices Hold the Key! Vitamin B12 is found in some tasty treats, like: Eggs: Start your day with a sunny-side-up B12 boost! Meat: From chicken and lamb to fish, these are excellent sources of B12. For Vegetarians: Fortified foods: Your best bet to meet B12 needs. Explore fortified cereals, nutritional yeast, and plant milks. Paneer: This Indian cottage cheese is a good source of B12 for vegetarians. Rajma (kidney beans): A protein-packed bean rich in iron and B vitamins, including B12. Apples: Surprisingly, apples contain small amounts of B12. While not a significant source, they can contribute to your overall intake. Mushrooms: Certain mushrooms like portobello pack a B12 punch. How Much B12 Do You Need? The magic number for adults over 14 is 2.4 micrograms (mcg) of B12 daily. Pregnant and breastfeeding women need a bit more, around 2.6 mcg and 2.8 mcg respectively. When to Suspect B12 Deficiency Dr. Sehrawat emphasizes that experiencing memory issues in your 20s-40s warrants immediate testing for B12 deficiency. Don't ignore these potential signs: Fatigue and weakness Pale skin Loss of appetite Mood changes Difficulty maintaining balance Simple Steps to Keep Your Health Shining If you suspect a deficiency, consult your doctor for diagnosis and treatment. They might recommend: Dietary changes: Include B12-rich foods like eggs, meat, and fish in your diet. Supplements: In some cases, your doctor might prescribe B12 supplements. Disclaimer: This material, including advice, provides general information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Take the methods, and claims mentioned in this article as suggestions only; DNP India does not confirm or refute them. Consult a doctor before implementing any such suggestions/ treatment/medicine/diet. Keep watching our YouTube Channel ‘DNP INDIA’. Also, please subscribe and follow us on FACEBOOK, INSTAGRAM, and TWITTER Read More Read the Next Article