As we know, the consumption of processed foods has become very common. Nutritional deficiencies are more widespread than ever before, and Vitamin B12 deficiency is one of the most underdiagnosed ones. A vitamin is a nutrient that is necessary for the well-being of nerves and the formation of red blood cells, and the production of energy. More than a million people globally, especially vegetarians and vegans who do not receive sufficient Vitamin B12 in their daily meals.
Do you know Vitamin B12 deficiency is a condition that develops over time, and its side effects may be confused with stress, fatigue, or ageing. Individuals can feel fatigued, experience mood swings, lack concentration, or even experience tingling in their hands and feet. Without the realisation that their body is screaming in need of this important vitamin.
No matter what your age is, do you know that energy and focus are the most important things in the matter of productivity? It is important to maintain healthy Vitamin B12 and energy levels. Let’s explore the deficiency of vitamin B12 and its Signs You Shouldn’t ignore
What is Vitamin B12 and Why is it Important?
It is a water-soluble vitamin that helps in numerous important functions in the body. It is useful in the production of red blood cells, sustaining the brain, and healthy nerve tissue.
In the absence of adequate B12, the body will fail to make adequate healthy red blood cells, which may cause fatigue, weakness, and anaemia.
Vitamins are also significant in the synthesis of DNA and energy metabolism. In short, when your Vitamin B12 and energy levels are low, your body will not be able to effectively help you do even the simplest everyday tasks.
Causes of Vitamin B12 Deficiency
Deficiency of vitamin B12 can be caused by several reasons:
- Digestive Problems: The presence of such conditions as celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, or low stomach acid may influence the absorption of B12.
- Age Factor: With age, there is a decrease in the capacity of our body to absorb Vitamin B12.
- Drugs: There are medications that are likely to hinder the absorption of B12 as well as diabetes or acid reflux drugs.
- Lifestyle Choices: Alcohol overconsumption or improper meals may also be a cause of deficiency.
Symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency
Early detection of the symptoms of Vitamin B12 deficiency is crucial in order to correct it on time. Symptoms are:
- Constant Fatigue and Weakness: When Vitamin B12 and energy are low, you may feel exhausted as a result of not having enough energy even after sleeping well.
- Pale or Yellow Skin: This is a result of a deficiency of red blood cells that makes the body pale or yellowish in colour.
- Tingling or Numbness: Through B12 deficiency, nerves are able to be destroyed, resulting in tingling in the hands or feet.
- Mood Swings or Depression: B12 contributes to the formation of serotonin. It is a deficiency of B12 may result in mood problems.
- Deficient Memory and Concentration: The initial symptoms include brain fog and forgetfulness.
- Shortness of Breath or Dizziness: Results due to the decreased oxygen-delivering capability in the blood.
- Swollen tongue and Mouth Ulcers: the tongue can be red, sore or swollen.
How Vitamin B12 Affects Energy Levels
Many people depend on caffeine or energy drinks to remove fatigue, but the best way is to restore vitamin B12 and energy levels organically or using ayurvedic advice. This vitamin helps in the body’s conversion of food into glucose, which is used as fuel. Your metabolism slows down, and you feel exhausted all the time without it.
Maintaining adequate amounts of vitamin B12 is especially beneficial for athletes, students, and working professionals since it promotes mental clarity, endurance, and attention.
Foods rich in vitamin B12
According to Ayurveda, food is a supreme medicine, and a vegetarian diet helps to stay physically and mentally healthy. Although the Vitamin B12 deficiency is typical of vegetarians, nature still provides strong sources that could help restore your Vitamin B12 and energy levels without using medications.
The following are Ayurvedic and plant-based foods rich in vitamin B12
- Grains and Legumes, Sprouted: Sprouted moong, lentils, etc, have small yet appreciable portions of Vitamin B12. It promotes the well-being of the digestive tract.
- B12-Enriched Mushrooms: Mushrooms are grown in soil that has B12 are also a great source of natural B12.
- Fermented Foods: Curd can be made at home (fermented), along with idli and dosa batter, fermented vegetables, which can help to support gut bacteria, improving B12 production.
- Enriched Plant-Based Milks: Select enriched Vitamin B12 fortified almond and Coconut milk.
Preventing and Managing Deficiency of Vitamin B12
The following practical advice will help you keep your energy levels and vitamin B12 levels in check:
- Make sure your meals contain a range of foods high in vitamin B12.
- Limit your intake of alcohol and processed meals.
- Every year, have your blood levels examined, particularly if you have chronic weariness.
- Take care of any underlying digestive problems that could interfere with absorption.
Conclusion
Many people are unaware that they have a Vitamin B12 deficiency, which can cause weakness, exhaustion, and weakened immunity. Natural diet and conscious living are the first steps toward actual healing. You can help your body naturally maintain appropriate levels of Vitamin B12 by eating an Ayurvedic diet, which is high in plant-based and fermented foods. In order to combat vitamin B12 insufficiency, choose fresh, sattvic meals that include fermented preparations, amla, and sprouted grains. Then, let nature replenish your vigour and inner harmony. If you need any more information, visit HiiMS (Jeena Sikho).
FAQ
Q1. Is an Ayurvedic diet beneficial for Vitamin B 12 deficiency?
Fermented and sprouted foods are an Ayurvedic diet that helps in the production of natural B12.
Q2. What are some of the initial symptoms of Vitamin B 12 deficiency?
The early symptoms are fatigue, weakness, and tingling sensations.
Q3. Are Ayurvedic herbs more beneficial in vitamin B12 deficiency?
Herbs as Ashwagandha, Triphala, and Shatavari promote the digestion process and the absorption of nutrients.
Q4. What is the Ayurvedic lifestyle recommendation for Vitamin B12 deficiency?
Fresh sattvic food, mindful eating, early rising, and yoga and pranayama are to be encompassed in the daily routine.
Q5. What dosha imbalance causes vitamin B12 deficiency?
The impaired Agni caused by the imbalance between the Vata and Kapha can result in poor digestion and a lack of Vitamin B12.
Reviewed By Dr. Ankita Rajkumar Varma