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Early symptoms include weakness and fatigue -

Low intake of vitamin B12 makes a dent in red blood cell production, which lowers energy levels. Early signs of deficiency include feeling confused, weak, and tired.

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Early symptoms include weakness and fatigue -

And as these clues of deficiency are so vague, most people don't think of getting tested. But if you experience these symptoms during several weeks, it's best to consult with your doctor. Other red flags are dizziness, impaired thinking, and confusion.

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Vegetarians and vegans are at risk -

If your diet largely consists of plant-based products, then you're at risk for B12 deficiency. Vegetarians who consume eggs and dairy should include at least one of these products a day.

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Vegetarians and vegans are at risk -

Vegans, on the other hand, who don't consume any animal products, need to take a supplement or consume vitamin B12-fortified foods, such as cereal and grains. Other options include nondairy milks and meat substitutes.

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Heavy drinking increases your odds -

Heavy drinking can cause gastritis, or irritation of the stomach lining, which can lead to low stomach acid and reduced B12 absorption. Also, B12 is stored in the liver, and alcohol consumption can impair its function.

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Birth control pills can trigger it -

Women who take birth control pills for extended periods of time tend to have issues absorbing vitamin B12. Pills that are higher in estrogen are more strongly associated with B12 deficiencies.

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Adults over 50 are also at risk -

The older you get, the less your stomach produces less acid, which is key for B12 absorption. As a result, roughly one in 31 adults over 50 are deficient.

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Adults over 50 are also at risk -

Stomach acid levels can also cause poorer appetites and food intakes. In some cases, seniors completely loose the ability to absorb vitamin B12, which they must get via supplements, or, in the worst case, injections.

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It's hard to overdo vitamin B12 -

As B12 is a water-soluble vitamin, your body only absorbs a small amount and the rest is excreted through urine. This means you can't have any excessive side effects when you take B12 supplements. However, if you take large amounts at once, it can cause diarrhea and itchiness.

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You can only know it with a blood test -

You can only know your blood levels of vitamin B12 by doing a blood test. You can do one at your primary care physician or GP.

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The best sources are meat and fish -

In the end, meat and fish are the best sources of vitamin B12, especially beef liver and clams. Ground beef, oysters, trout, and salmon are also B12 superstars. You can also get B12 from eggs and milk.

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It can cause birth defects -

Appropriate levels of B12 are crucial for a healthy pregnancy, as the fetus’ brain and nervous system require sufficient B12 levels to properly develop.

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Digestive problems can trigger it -

People who suffer with digestive issues are at a higher risk of B12 deficiency because digestive problems can make absorbing the nutrient more difficult. This includes people with Crohn's disease, inflammatory bowel disease, leaky gut syndrome, as well as Celiac disease.

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Fortified foods and supplements can help -

Both fortified foods and supplements can help vegans, older adults, and anyone unable to absorb naturally occurring B12. Simply eating foods rich in B12 might not always help.

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Heartburn drugs can cause it -

Some heartburn drugs can suppress the production of stomach acid, which is needed to absorb vitamin B12. Research has found that taking these types of meds for more than two years was linked to a 65% higher risk of vitamin B12 deficiency.

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Heartburn drugs can cause it -

If you take heartburn drugs regularly, make sure to talk to your doctor about steps you can take to protect yourself. You don't want the symptoms getting worse.

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There are also visible signs -

Pale skin, mouth sores, and a swollen tongue are some visible signs of B12 shortage. Caused by changes in the blood flow due to the deficiency, these signs usually take years to show up.

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It can trigger a false positive on a Pap test -

Vitamin B12 deficiency even affects the Pap test, which you get at your gynecologist's to screen for cervical cancer. Low B12 levels can change the way some cervical cells look, potentially triggering a false positive.

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It can be hard to recognize a deficiency -

You're unlikely to notice any symptoms of deficiency early on, as the body can store B12 for three to five years. Any signs usually appear gradually.

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It can be hard to recognize a deficiency -

Usually after initial clues like fatigue and weakness, more advanced signs show up, such as tingling and depression. The signs are varied and don't affect everyone.

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It can be mistaken for dementia -

Symptoms of deficiency include memory loss, disorientation, and difficulty thinking, which often mimic signs of dementia. And as older folks often suffer from both, it can be hard to distinguish them.

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It can be mistaken for dementia -

And even when vitamin B12 deficiency strikes on younger people, it still typically resembles dementia. Experts recommend that patients with unexplained cognitive decline should be tested for B12 deficiency.

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It can cause tingling, weakness, and balance issues -

Depletion of vitamin B12 storage leads to nerve damage. Tingling, weakness, and balance issues are all consequences of long-term B12 deficiency.

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It's linked to immune system issues -

B12 plays an important role in white blood cell production, which is essential for proper immune system functioning. Also, some immune system disorders can increase your likelihood of becoming B12 deficient.

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It can happen after weight loss surgery -

Some surgeries, such as gastric bypass, that affect the gastrointestinal tract can make it hard to absorb B12. This is largely due to the decreased ability of the body to digest food.

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It's linked to pernicious anemia -

B12 deficiency can trigger a specific type of anemia called pernicious. It can be the result of an autoimmune issue, a problem with the stomach lining, or even a congenital condition passed down through generations.

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It can cause an increased risk of osteoporosis -

Adequate vitamin B12 levels are important for your bone health. Low blood levels of B12 have been associated with an increased risk of osteoporosis.

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Babies can get it -

Vitamin B12 deficiency in infants is rare but can happen. Serious symptoms such as anemia, problems with movement, and reaching development milestones can be fatal. This can occur if the baby is strictly fed a diet free of any animal products, or if a breastfeeding mom is a vegan who doesn't take vitamin B12 supplements.

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It can cause permanent damage -

B12 deficiency that persists for years can cause severe, irreversible neurologic damage. Some consequences include memory loss, lack of concentration, and disorientation.

Sources: (Health.com) (Healthline)

See also: Health mistakes you didn't know you're making

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