Vitamin B12 Deficiency Symptoms

There are eight different forms of vitamin B and vitamin B12 is one of them. The unique feature of vitamin B12 is its complex structure and the presence of the biochemically rare component cobalt in it. It is soluble in water. It has a significant role in the proper functioning of the brain and the nervous system. It is also responsible for the formation of red blood cells, repair works of the body cells and synthesis of essential DNA (Deoxyribonucleic acid) molecule.

Vitamin B12 helps to stimulate the mechanisms involved in detoxification of our body. They are particularly important for the removal of poisonous chemical substances like lead, arsenic and antimony. Deficiency of vitamin B12 affects both men and women equally. In adults, there is an extensive reserves of vitamin B12, which can be used for three to five years. Hence, it takes several months for the symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency to become apparent in adults. However, in infants and children the symptoms become apparent quite early.

Vitamin B12 Deficiency Symptoms

The first symptom of vitamin B12 deficiency is a specific type of anemia called pernicious anemia that inhibits the secretion of glycoprotein from the gastric cells of stomach. This results in symptoms like weakness, tiredness, lethargic feelings, dizziness, lack of appetite, digestive problems and weight loss.

The parts of the body that suffer maximum damage due to vitamin B12 deficiency are the brain and the nervous system. Methylcobalamine, formed as a result of methylation reaction of vitamin B12, is an essential nutrient for the brain. It prevents the ill-effects of glutamate and nitric oxide, which are responsible for Parkinson's and Alzheimer's diseases. Vitamin B12 is vital for the secretion of hormones, like melatonin that induces sleep and serotonin that controls mood. Hence, it has been found that people with vitamin B12 deficiency often tend to suffer from different types of mental disorders. The common mental changes that have been observed as a result of vitamin B12 deficiency, are concentration problems, sleeping problems, depression, emotional disturbance, hallucinations and mental fatigue.

The myelin layer present in the central nervous system provide insulation for the nervous cells. Methylcobalamin obtained from vitamin B12 protects myelin from any kind of degeneration. Deficiency of vitamin B12 leads to decadence of myelin and causes neurological damage. As a result, symptoms like loss of memory, lack of balance, lack of sensation in hand, feet or tongue, absence of muscle-tendon reflexes and palpitations may be observed.

The main source of vitamin B12 in our body is animal proteins. Foodstuffs like shellfish, meat, eggs and dairy products have rich contents of vitamin B12. Usually, vitamin B12 is not found in vegetables. Even if it is found in some of them, it is almost in negligible amounts. As a result, vegans are more prone to vitamin B12 deficiency. Those infants who are breast-feeding from vegan mothers are also at high risk of suffering from vitamin B12 deficiency. Therefore, these people should regularly take vitamin B12 as dietary supplements to avoid its deficiency. Vitamin B12 needs other essential vitamins as well for its normal functioning. Therefore, a balanced diet is must to prevent the symptoms of deficiency of vitamin B12.