Signs You Don't Get Enough Vitamin B12
By Sara Butler
Vitamin B12 is an essential nutrient that people don’t know enough about -- and may not be getting enough of. In fact, it’s an often overlooked vitamin that is vital to your health and wellness, especially the health of your central nervous system. Here’s what you need to know about Vitamin B12 and how to know if you’re getting enough.
Why B12 is so Important
There are a total of eight B Vitamins. Each of them provides your body with the energy it needs to convert the food you eat into fuel your body can use. Vitamin B12 is essential in maintaining healthy blood and nerve cells as well as producing DNA.
You should be getting about 2.4 micrograms of Vitamin B12 per day through the foods you eat. But in some cases, people may not be able to get enough through their diet or because they can’t absorb it properly. There are some significant signs that can clue you in to whether or not you’re getting enough.
Signs You Don’t Get Enough
The most prevalent signs of a Vitamin B12 deficiency are:
- Tingling in the hands and feet – B12 helps your body produce myelin, the protective coating on your nerves. If you don’t produce enough of it, then nerve damage can occur. If your nerves begin to shrink, then you may have a sensation of pins and needles.
- You’re overly tired – If you are always exhausted and weak, then you may need more B12. If your blood cells can’t carry oxygen to the different parts of your body, then the lack of oxygen can leave you feeling run down.
- Yellowish or pale skin – Losing that healthy glow is a sign something isn’t right. Not getting enough oxygen to your cells can cause a change in the appearance of your skin. Yellow skin can also be an indication that something is wrong with your liver.
- You’re vegan or vegetarian – Vitamin B12 is only found naturally in animal products, so if you don’t eat them, then there’s a chance you’re deficient.
What to Do
If you suspect you’re Vitamin B12 deficient, then talk to a medical professional about it. Tests can be done to check your levels and then a plan can be created to tackle any deficiency found. Remember, to stay healthy, it’s important that you get enough Vitamin B12 in your diet and if you’re not, then do something about it.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Durham, N.C.