Vitamin B12 deficiency can be extremely harmful for the body
It might seem that a little less of this vitamin won't trouble one much. However, health experts have warned against deficiency of this essential vitamin.
Having too little vitamin B12 in the body for a long time might cause irreversible damage to the body.
In this article we will discuss the complications that might arise due to lack of vitamin B12. We will also discuss the signs of vitamin B12 deficiency that can help people to spot this deficiency at the earliest.
Lack of vitamin B12 can cause memory loss
Untreated vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to mental health issues like memory loss.
Vitamin B12 is linked to the cognitive health of an individual.
This is often accompanied by tingling sensation in the hands and legs.
Ataxia
An unsteady gait or lack of coordination during physical movement is called ataxia.
The ataxia linked to vitamin B12 deficiency is called sensory ataxia as it happens due to loss of sensation in the feet.
Stomach cancer
"If you have a vitamin B12 deficiency caused by pernicious anaemia, a condition where your immune system attacks healthy cells in your stomach, your risk of developing stomach cancer is increased," the NHS UK says.
Several other studies have also found a link between low vitamin B12 and increased risk of gastric cancer.
Vision loss
Due to the deficiency of this essential vitamin the nerves are damaged. When the optic nerve that leads to the eyes are damaged, the vision power of the individual is compromised.
Timely eye checkup can prevent this complication.
Birth defects like anencephaly
Birth defects like spina bifida and anencephaly are likely to be caused when there is vitamin B12 deficiency.
Though genes have a role to play in such complications, vitamin B12 supplements can help prevent the risks.
What are 5 signs of vitamin B12 deficiency you should never ignore?
Fatigue is the first and the most important sign of vitamin B12 deficiency. When the body does not have enough red blood cells to carry oxygen it is likely to feel weak.
Pale skin is another indication that you lack this vital vitamin.
Unexplained headaches is another reason why you should get your blood tested.
Stomach issues like diarrhea, constipation, bloating are hints that your body is deficient of an important nutrient.
Low mood, without any other reason, should be checked with the doctor.
Cardiovascular health: Why women tend to miss risks of heart disease