According to one expert, there are three major signs when you go to the bathroom that indicate you need more B12. Registered nutrition consultant NutrigomasShona Wilkinson said people with B12 deficiencies can regularly have problems with constipation, gas and diarrhea. speaking to Express.esHe said: “Since parts of the digestive system depend on B vitamins, such as the intestines, colon and rectum, there are some crucial signs to watch out for.
“A vitamin B12 deficiency can impact tiredness and fatigue, vision, and muscle weakness; however, these are the three signs you should be aware of when you visit the bathroom.
“Frequent problems with constipation, gas and diarrhea can sometimes indicate a lack of vitamin B12.
“Also, signs that your digestive tract is upset with symptoms like a bloated stomach or discomfort can also be an indication.
“Although these are not indicators alone, when combined, it might be worth going to an expert.”
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He explained more about why B12 is so important to our bodies.
“Vitamin B12 is a water-soluble vitamin, which means it can be washed out and is not easily stored,” he added.
“It can be found naturally in some foods and added to others.
“Vitamin B12 is involved in many vital processes within the body, from the production of red blood cells, the release of energy from food, and the maintenance of a healthy nervous system.
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“The vitamin also plays a vital role in the creation of DNA and RNA, the building blocks of every cell in the body.”
People who don’t eat as much protein may be at higher risk of developing a deficiency.
“Vitamin B12 is found naturally in many high-protein foods such as meat, eggs and fish,” he said.
“Therefore, it is recommended that those on a vegan or vegetarian diet take them in fortified foods or supplements.”
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B12 deficiency can cause:
- A pale yellow tint to your skin.
- A red, sore tongue (glossitis)
- mouth ulcers
- Pins and needles (paresthesia)
- Changes in the way you walk and move
- disturbed vision
- Irritability
- Depression
- Changes in the way you think, feel, and behave
- A decline in your mental abilities, such as memory, understanding, and judgment.
The NHS warns to see a doctor if you notice any of these symptoms.
“It is important that vitamin B12 or folate deficiency anemia is diagnosed and treated as soon as possible,” he says.
“Although many symptoms improve with treatment, some problems caused by the condition may be irreversible if left untreated.
“The longer the condition goes untreated, the greater the chance of permanent damage.”
Foods rich in vitamin B12 include meat, fish, milk, cheese, eggs, and some fortified breakfast cereals.
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