## Some common signs of B12 deficiency include: - Fatigue and weakness - Neurological manifestations such as numbness, tingling, challenges with cognition and word recall - Psychological symptoms such as depression or irritability ## Certain diets, medications, and medical conditions can increase your risk of developing a Vitamin B12 deficiency: - Following a vegan/plant-based diet. - Pernicious Anemia- Pernicious anemia is an autoimmune disease affecting the cells in the body that produce Intrinsic Factor (IF) which is necessary for B12 absorption - Gastrointestinal conditions such as H. pylori infection, Gastritis, Crohn’s and Celiac diseases can damage the mucosa of the stomach and small intestine, inhibiting the digestion and absorption of Vitamin B12 - Alcohol use disorder - History of bariatric surgery - Long term use of certain medications such as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and Metformin - Elderly individuals are more susceptible to B12 deficiency ## Nutrition to improve B12 levels: Eat foods rich in Vitamin B12: meat, fish, poultry, eggs, dairy, fortified breakfast cereals, nutritional yeast. Address any underlying digestive issues that may be contributing to poor absorption. Consider B12 supplements (if indicated based on lab work) if you follow a plant-based diet or take certain medications. ## Fun Fact: In addition to obtaining Vitamin B12 from food, Vitamin B12 is also produced by certain bacteria in the human digestive tract! ## Reference: Ross, A. C., Caballero, B., Cousins, R. J., Tucker, K. L., & Ziegler, T. R. (2012). Modern nutrition in health and disease: Eleventh edition. Wolters Kluwer Health Adis (ESP).1 - [ Nutrition ](/about/blog?category=31) - [ Health Education ](/about/blog?category=8) ## Media Inquiry Daniel McEvily, Assistant Vice President of Marketing and Communications [1-667-354-0722](tel:1-667-354-0722) Aaron Cahall, Communications Manager [1-667-354-0725](tel:1-667-354-0725)