Signs of vitamin B12 deficiency include tingling in feet

Woman taking supplement
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There are several signs that could indicate a deficiency in vitamin B12, one of which is a tingling sensation in the feet. Vitamin B12, which can be obtained from foods such as eggs, beef, chicken and cheese, is reabsorbed into the body through the gut. B vitamins play a crucial role in wound recovery as they help in the production of red blood cells, essential for oxygen circulation in the body.

These vitamins also contribute to maintaining eye health, a robust immune system, protein absorption, DNA synthesis and the formation of red blood cells. According to the Express, an expert has stated that a deficiency can impact wound healing in various ways.

This helps maintain eye health, a strong immune system, protein absorption, DNA synthesis and formation of red blood cells. An expert says a deficiency can affect wound healing in a number of ways, according to the Express.

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An important protein produced by stomach cells called intrinsic factor (IF) binds to vitamin B12. Without IF, vitamin B12 is lost through the digestive process. It won't be produced in significant volume if the body's immune system attacks the stomach cells, for whatever reason.

In this instance, feet problems can happen as a consequence so if you experience tingling sensations in the feet, see your GP. An expert at the University of Nottingham said that the "lack of vitamin B can affect wound healing in a number of ways", particularly the feet, reports DevonLive.

Your doctors might advise or prescribe high-dose vitamin B12 supplements. However, if symptoms become more pronounced, you might need weekly vitamin B12 injections. It's important to rectify a vitamin B12 deficiency because it can lead to severe neurological problems and blood diseases.

Other symptoms of a lack of the vitamin include;

  • Weakness

  • Fatigue

  • Cognitive difficulties

  • Memory loss

  • A swollen, inflamed tongue

  • Difficulty walking

  • Anaemia

Harvard Medical School said: "Vitamin B12 deficiency can be slow to develop, causing symptoms to appear gradually and intensify over time." They added a lack of vitamin B12 "might also occur following weight-loss surgery too."

The overuse of heartburn medication can reduce acid production in the stomach, and acid stomach plays a key part in the absorption of vitamin B12, thus a deficiency can occur. Vitamin B12 supplements can be purchased online, at a pharmacy or can be prescribed by your doctor.