Vitamin B12 is nothing short of a powerhouse nutrient. Crucial for a healthy mind and immune system, the benefits of B12 are endless. The nutrient B12, naturally found in animal products, assists in keeping our body’s nerve and blood cells healthy, vital in producing our DNA.
Up to 15 percent of people don’t get enough B12, particularly vegetarians and vegans because it is difficult to get enough B12 without consuming animal products. You’re at risk of deficiency if you don’t get enough B12 from your diet or aren’t able to absorb enough from the foods that you consume.
Signs of B12 Deficiency
Weakness and fatigue are common symptoms of B12 deficiency. This occurs when our body doesn’t receive enough B12 to make red blood cells, which carry oxygen throughout our body. A more serious side effect of long-term deficiency is nerve damage. B12 plays an important role in producing Myelin. Myelin surrounds our nerves like insulation. Without myelin, our nervous system simply will not function properly and can lead to conditions like peripheral neuropathy and degeneration of the spinal cord.
Other symptoms of B12 deficiency include, numbness or tingling in hands legs and feet, a swollen tongue, difficulty staying focused and cognitive difficulties, weakness, difficulty walking, headaches, itching, nervousness and anxiousness and anemia, among others.
Getting Enough B12
The best sources of natural occurring B12 can be found in beef liver and clams, as well as trout, turkey, oysters, chicken, and salmon. Fortified supplements can assist vegetarians, vegans and older adults who may not absorb sufficient amounts of B12 through diet. Having a readily available Vitamin B12 patch daily is a very effective way to ensure you are receiving the recommended daily dose, taking the guesswork out for you.
