Vitamin B12 deficiency: Do you have these disturbing thoughts? You could be deficient

Vitamin B12 plays an essential role in the body’s makeup – it helps keep the body’s nerve and blood cells healthy and helps make DNA, among other things. Naturally, having low levels of B12 can be a recipe for ruin, causing serious harm to both your physical and mental health. The extensive impact of B12 deficiency means it often slips under the radar.

“These conditions can often be diagnosed based on your symptoms and the results of a blood test,” explains the health body.

It’s important for vitamin B12 or folate deficiency anaemia to be diagnosed and treated as soon as possible.

As the NHS warns, although many of the symptoms improve with treatment, some problems caused by the condition can be irreversible if left untreated.

How to treat B12 deficiency

The treatment for vitamin B12 or folate deficiency anaemia depends on what’s causing the condition.

Why are some people more likely to have B12 deficiency as a result of their diet?

B12 is naturally found in animal products, such as meat and dairy so are not suitable for vegans or vegetarians.

In fact, those following a vegan diet may need vitamin B12 supplements for life, notes the NHS.

If you’re a vegetarian or vegan, or are looking for alternatives to meat and dairy products, there are other foods that contain vitamin B12, however.

These include yeast extract, as well as some fortified breakfast cereals and soy products, says the NHS.

If you’re experiencing suicidal thoughts it’s important to tell someone. There are free helplines available, 24 hours a day, every day. Call Samaritans on 116 123.

source: express.co.uk