Vitamin B12 deficiency is insidious: it develops slowly and symptoms are often vague. Yet long-term deficiency can have serious consequences for your nervous system and blood cell production.
What B12 does
Essential for red blood cell production, nervous system function, DNA synthesis, energy production and neurotransmitter production.
Symptoms
Fatigue, tingling/numbness in hands and feet, concentration problems, low mood, balance issues, sore red tongue and pale/yellowish skin. Nerve damage from prolonged deficiency can be irreversible.
Normal values
Above 300 pmol/L: normal. 150-300: grey area (possible functional deficiency). Below 150: deficient.
Risk groups
Vegetarians/vegans, elderly (65+), people with gut conditions, long-term acid reflux medication users and metformin users.
Frequently asked questions
How long to correct a deficiency?
Blood values improve within 6-8 weeks. Nerve symptoms may take months and may not fully reverse if deficiency was prolonged.
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