Vitamin B-12 is a water soluble vitamin, meaning that what the body doesn't use is flushed out of the system. Because of this, vitamin B-12 must be consumed regularly as part of a balanced diet or through supplements. Cold feet are not a symptom of low vitamin B-12, although numbness and tingling in the arms and legs can result from low levels of vitamin B-12. Cold feet are most often a consequence of poor circulation.
Vitamin B-12 and Sources
Vitamin B-12 contributes toward metabolic function, creating red blood cells and maintaining the nervous system. Vitamin B-12 is most readily obtained from meats, shellfish, poultry and dairy products. It is also available in fortified soy products. In addition, it can be taken as a supplement. Vegetarians and vegans sometimes need a B-12 supplement to augment what they get in their diets.
Vitamin B-12 Deficiency
Low levels of vitamin B-12 occur when your diet lacks B-12 or your body cannot fully absorb the vitamin. Symptoms of low vitamin B-12 levels include anemia, loss of balance, numbness or tingling in the arms and legs and weakness. In some cases, the numbness or tingling in the arms and legs can be mistaken for cold extremities. If you think you suffer from low vitamin B-12 levels, consult your doctor to determine if this is, indeed, the case.
Poor Circulation
Poor circulation in your feet can cause them to feel cold, as there is not enough blood flow to provided necessary warmth. Peripheral vascular disease is the name given to a variety of conditions that cause poor circulation in the legs and feet. Among these causes, hardening of the arteries is the most common.
Also known as atherosclerosis, this is a process in which the walls of the arteries gradually thicken and harden. Symptoms include a dull cramping sensation in the legs, numbness or tingling in the feet or toes, a change in skin color, cold feet and sores and infections on the legs and feet that do not heal readily. Contact your doctor for a diagnosis if you experience any of these symptoms.
Treatment
Because diabetes is one of the most common causes of atherosclerosis, controlling your blood-glucose levels is extremely important. In addition, exercising more can improve overall health and circulation. Eliminating saturated fats from your diet and not smoking will help, as well. Your doctor may prescribe drugs to help prevent blood clots. Consult your doctor for an appropriate course of treatment if you suffer from cold feet, peripheral vascular disease or atherosclerosis.
