Vitamin B-12 is one of the vitamins responsible for regulating metabolism, aiding in the manufacture of red blood cells and keeping the central nervous system in good condition. If you are a vegan, or a vegetarian who does not eat enough animal products, such as eggs, you may be at risk for vitamin B-12 deficiency. This deficiency is also common among alcoholics, those with Crohn's disease and the breastfed infants of vegan or vegetarian mothers.
Anemia
Since vitamin B-12 aids in the production of red blood cells, a deficiency in the vitamin may lead to vitamin B-12 deficiency anemia. Symptoms of this type of anemia include shortness of breath, a pale appearance, loss of appetite, fatigue, dizziness, problems with concentration and a red, swollen tongue. Treatment may consist of vitamin B-12 oral supplements. Sometimes poor absorption is responsible of B-12 deficiency anemia and not a low intake of the vitamin. In this case, vitamin B-12 injections may be given daily until your levels are adequate.
Neurological Problems
If vitamin B-12 deficiency persists, you may experience neurological problems. These can include weakness or numbness in one or more areas of the body, tingling in the hands or feet, weakness, trouble walking, and behavioral changes. Low levels of vitamin B-12 can cause a sudden onset of dementia. As such, if you suddenly have cognitive problems, your doctor may test you for a vitamin deficiency. The sooner treatment, which includes vitamin B-12 supplementation, begins, the better your chances of reversing neurological damage.
Other Symptoms
Low vitamin B-12 levels have been associated with an increased risk of heart attack or stroke, notes the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. This is especially true if you also have a low level of folate, another B vitamin. A low level of the vitamin can also cause gastrointestinal disturbances, such as constipation, diarrhea or excess gas. Nursing infants of vegan mothers who do not get enough vitamin B-12 may fail to thrive, have low muscle tone and experience developmental delays.
Sources of Vitamin B-12
The best way to obtain enough vitamin B-12 is to eat a varied diet that includes animal products. Good sources of this vitamin include meat, shellfish, eggs, poultry and dairy products. If you are a vegetarian, you can get enough vitamin B-12 from dairy products and eggs, but if you are vegan, ask your doctor about whether a vitamin B-12 supplement is right for you.
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