The symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency can develop slowly and worsen over time. Some symptoms may be experienced by people who have a vitamin B12 deficiency without anemia.
Some people may experience no symptoms
, despite low levels of vitamin B12.
Is B12 deficiency the same as anemia?
Vitamin B12 or B9 (commonly called
folate
) deficiency anaemia occurs when a lack of vitamin B12 or folate causes the body to produce abnormally large red blood cells that cannot function properly.
Is b12 deficiency Anaemia?
Vitamin B12 or B9 (commonly called
folate
) deficiency anaemia occurs when a lack of vitamin B12 or folate causes the body to produce abnormally large red blood cells that cannot function properly.
What type of anemia is B12?
Pernicious anemia
is a type of vitamin B12 anemia. The body needs vitamin B12 to make red blood cells. You get this vitamin from eating foods such as meat, poultry, shellfish, eggs, and dairy products.
What is the main cause of vitamin B12 deficiency?
However, the most common cause of vitamin B-12 deficiency anemia is
a lack of a substance called intrinsic factor
, which can be caused when your immune system mistakenly attacks the stomach cells that produce this substance. This type of anemia is called pernicious anemia.
How long does it take to get B12 levels up?
Once you begin treating your vitamin B12 deficiency, it can take
up to six to 12 months
to fully recover. It is also common to not experience any improvement during the first few months of treatment. If you can, it's a good idea to address what's causing the deficiency.
How long does it take to correct a B12 deficiency?
Recovery from vitamin B12 deficiency takes time and you may not experience any improvement during the first few months of treatment. Improvement may be gradual and may continue for
up to six to 12 months
.
What does a B12 deficiency tongue look like?
B12 deficiency will also make the
tongue sore and beefy-red in color
. Glossitis, by causing swelling of the tongue, may also cause the tongue to appear smooth.
What does low B12 feel like?
Symptoms of Vitamin B12 Deficiency
A mild deficiency may cause no symptoms. But if untreated, it may lead to symptoms such as:
Weakness, tiredness, or lightheadedness
.
Heart palpitations and shortness of breath
.
What are the neurological symptoms of B12 deficiency?
- vision problems.
- memory loss.
- pins and needles (paraesthesia)
- loss of physical co-ordination (ataxia), which can affect your whole body and cause difficulty speaking or walking.
How can I raise my B12 levels fast?
- Beef, liver, and chicken.
- Fish and shellfish such as trout, salmon, tuna fish, and clams.
- Fortified breakfast cereal.
- Low-fat milk, yogurt, and cheese.
- Eggs.
How much B12 should I take daily for anemia?
Left untreated, a vitamin B-12 deficiency can lead to anemia, fatigue, muscle weakness, intestinal problems, nerve damage and mood disturbances. The recommended daily amount of vitamin B-12 for adults is
2.4 micrograms
.
When is the best time to take iron and B12?
- Take your supplement before bed. This is likely to be the easiest time to have an empty stomach. …
- Have a large breakfast or lunch. …
- If you need food, plan to eat a piece of fruit with your supplement.
What medications should not be taken with B12?
Other medications can also interfere with your uptake of vitamin B12, possibly raising your risk for deficiency. These medications include
antacids and peptic ulcer medications
, cholesterol-lowering drugs, antiseizure medications, chemotherapy medications, the diabetes treatment glucophage (Metformin) and others.
Does low B12 cause weight gain?
Furthermore, while
a deficiency in vitamin B12 may not cause weight gain
, it can decrease energy levels and contribute to fatigue, making it harder to stay active and manage your weight.
When is the best time to take vitamin B12?
“Take water-soluble vitamins on an empty stomach with a glass of water,” recommends Dr. Perez-Gallardo. And since it can be energizing, Dr. Perez-Gallardo says that the best time to take vitamin B12 is
in the morning
, so it won't affect your sleep.
