Vitamin B12 plays a critical role in maintaining the health of the body - it is involved in the production of erythrocytes, DNA synthesis and normal brain function. The risk of its deficiency increases especially with age, which can lead to serious complications, including damage to the nervous system.
Doctors emphasize that prolonged deficiency of vitamin B12 can cause irreversible changes in the body. The best sources of this vitamin are products of animal origin - meat, fish, eggs, dairy products. However, even with sufficient nutrition, problems with its assimilation, in particular in the elderly, vegetarians or people with gastrointestinal diseases, may occur.
The most common symptoms of B12 deficiency
1. The tingling in the extremities.
One of the first alarm signals is the feeling of tingling or "ants" in the hands and legs. This indicates the effect of deficiency on the nervous system - B12 is necessary for the formation of myelin, a substance that protects the nerve fibers. Its lack leads to nerve damage, which is sometimes irreversible.
2. Changes in tongue.
With vitamin deficiency, the tongue can swell, lose normal color and become painful. The sensitivity of the taste receptors also disappears - food seems fresh or devoid of taste.
3. Vision Deterioration.
B12 deficiency can lead to a gradual loss of vision, blurred or foggy picture. This is due to the impact of the optic nerve.
Who is worth paying attention to
People over 60, vegans, persons with anemia or digestive disorders are at risk. If you have these symptoms, you should consult your doctor and take tests. In most cases, the problem can be corrected by correction of nutrition or a course of vitamin supplements.
