Suffering from unexplained mood disorders? You may be deficient in Vitamin B-12: Doctors New Delhi, July 6 (IANS) Vitamin B-12 plays a key role in producing brain chemicals that affect mood and other brain functions, doctors said on Saturday.
What are the symptoms of Vitamin B-12 deficiency?
Vitamin B-12 (also called cobalamin) plays an important role in the formation of red blood cells, cell metabolism, nerve function, and the production of DNA. Common symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency include abnormal sensations, numbness, or tingling in the hands, legs, or feet, difficulty walking (staggering, balance problems), anemia, difficulty thinking and reasoning (cognitive impairment), memory loss, weakness, or fatigue.
“Vitamin B12 and other B vitamins play an important role in producing brain chemicals that affect mood and other brain functions. Low levels of vitamin B12, vitamin B6 and other B vitamins like folate may be associated with depression,” Dr Anshu Rohtagi, senior consultant, neurology department, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, told IANS.
“Deficiency can occur due to an unhealthy diet or difficulty absorbing the vitamin when ingested, so maintaining adequate vitamin B12 levels is essential for overall health, including mood regulation,” she added.
What is the best source of Vitamin B-12?
Vitamin B-12 is found primarily in poultry, meat, fish, and dairy products. It is available as an oral supplement, injection, and nasal spray. Because plant foods do not contain vitamin B-12, people following a vegetarian or vegan diet may be more susceptible to a deficiency. Older people and those with gastrointestinal disorders that affect nutrient absorption are also more susceptible to vitamin B-12 deficiency.
How does Vitamin B-12 affect the body?
“Vitamin B12 plays a vital role in producing brain chemicals such as serotonin that help regulate mood. When B12 levels drop, it can lead to imbalance of these chemicals, leading to symptoms like mood swings, irritability and even depression,” Dr Guruprasad Hosulkar, associate head, neurology, Fortis Hospital, Bannerghatta Road, Bengaluru, told IANS.
Importantly, the doctor explained, “This relationship is not gender specific; both men and women can experience mood changes due to vitamin B12 deficiency.” Though research is ongoing, studies have suggested a link between vitamin B12 deficiency and depression, and some studies have shown that vitamin B12 supplementation can improve mood. However, it’s important to note that there can be many causes for mood swings, and you should consult with your doctor to rule out other factors and determine if you have a vitamin B12 deficiency, Dr. Guruprasad says.
“Vitamin B12 deficiency leads to several neurological symptoms including tingling, numbness, burning sensation in the legs, loss of balance, memory impairment, mood disorders, psychosis, seizures and Parkinsonism,” Dr Sudheer Kumar of Indraprastha Apollo Hospital, Hyderabad, explained in a post on social media platform X. “In patients presenting with neurological and psychiatric symptoms, suspect Vitamin B12 deficiency as a cause (especially when no obvious cause has been identified).
Treating Vitamin B12 Deficiency
“With early diagnosis and prompt initiation of treatment, patients’ conditions improve rapidly,” he added. The doctors also stressed the need to maintain a healthy lifestyle, advising on key actions such as controlling high blood pressure and blood sugar levels, abstaining from smoking and alcohol, maintaining physical activity, getting enough sleep and managing stress.
Published on: Saturday, July 6, 2024 5:55 PM IST
