One of the best ways to stay healthy is to make sure you get enough nutrients, including vitamin B12, into your body every day.
A deficiency of Vitamin B12 reduces the body’s ability to adequately function red blood cells, which carry oxygen around the body.
According to Naomi Neuman-Beinart, PhD, some of the main signs of vitamin B12 deficiency include fatigue, difficulty concentrating, mouth sores, numbness in the hands and feet, depressed mood, and weakness.
Many people struggle to meet the recommended daily intake of vitamin B12 for a variety of reasons, including unhealthy or restrictive diets.
Here, health experts explain why you need to eat a varied, balanced diet and get enough vitamin B12 every day.
Reduces age-related brain shrinkage
Studies have shown that certain B vitamins, including vitamin B12, may reduce the rate of brain shrinkage associated with aging.
“Researchers have found that a deficiency of vitamin B12 can reduce brain size, which may explain why people’s cognitive abilities are affected by vitamin B12 deficiency,” says Dr. Newman-Beinart.
“Brain atrophy is a natural part of aging, but it occurs at a faster rate in people over 70 with mild memory impairment, and even faster in those with Alzheimer’s disease.”
Supports mental health
If you have low B12 levels, you are at risk of developing mental health issues.
“Vitamin B12 is needed for the production of the mood-boosting neurotransmitters serotonin and dopamine,” explains Dr Newman-Beinart. “Researchers have found that people with low vitamin B12 levels are more likely to suffer from depression than people with normal vitamin B12 levels. This is very interesting information; according to Mental Health UK, almost 20% of people aged 16 and over in the UK show signs of depression or anxiety.”
Fighting fatigue
If you’re feeling more tired than usual, you may be deficient in Vitamin B12.
“Getting enough vitamin B12 can make a big difference in your mood, energy levels, and overall health,” say experts. “This vitamin also helps convert food into energy by breaking down carbohydrate glucose into adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which is the energy source for all our cells.”
Dr. Neumann-Beinart recommends BetterYou Vitamin B12 Oral Spray for people who have trouble getting enough vitamin B12 from their diet, such as vegetarians and vegans.
