Nutrition information
Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12 is needed for red blood cell formation, DNA production, and normal nervous-system function. Low levels can develop for dietary or medical reasons and should be assessed rather than inferred from symptoms alone.
Seek professional advice if you have persistent numbness, tingling, balance changes, marked fatigue, or concerns about deficiency. Neurological symptoms can have many causes and should not be self-treated.
Food sources
Vitamin B12 is naturally present in many animal foods, including fish, meat, poultry, eggs, and dairy. Some plant-based foods are fortified with B12; check the nutrition label because unfortified plant foods are not reliable sources. People who avoid animal products need a dependable fortified-food or supplement plan, ideally discussed with a qualified professional.
Who may be at risk?
Risk can be higher with a vegan diet without fortified sources, conditions or surgeries affecting absorption, and some medicines or age-related changes. A person can have deficiency without an obvious dietary cause. A healthcare professional can review diet, symptoms, medicines, and tests to identify the cause.
Testing and supplements
Blood tests may be used to assess B12 status, and further evaluation may be needed to find why a level is low. Supplement form and amount depend on the reason and the person's circumstances. Do not use supplements to postpone assessment of neurological symptoms or stop prescribed medicines without medical advice.