Symptoms Of Vitamin B12 Deficiency Can Be Found On Your Tongue

Vitamin B12 is an essential nutrient that plays important functions in the body. For instance, it is essential for the brain to be in optimum health. It is also vital for the nerve tissues, and it is also needed for the proper production of the body’s red blood cells.

When you lack vitamin B12, these body functions are affected. Consequently, it will result in a number of health issues, which could have been avoided, had you ensured that you don’t lack this vitamin. So how will you know that you lack vitamin B12? According to health experts, your tongue would show if you are deficient in vitamin B12.

Symptoms of Vitamin B12 Deficiency on the Tongue

A swollen and inflamed tongue is one of the symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency. Long straight lesions are often found on the tongue. This symptom denoted that the deficiency is still in its early stages. Normally, when the condition is not yet “serious,” it could still be treated.

Medical experts describe the inflamed tongue as glossitis. This is also characterized by pain, being swollen and looking red. It also makes the tongue look smooth. You would also see tiny bumps, which at times, would also disappear.

Other Symptoms

Aside from an inflamed tongue, vitamin B12 deficiency has other symptoms. You may feel numbness in the hands and feet. Sometimes, it can be a tingling sensation. Balance problems are common symptoms as well. Others suffer from anemia, memory loss, as well as having difficulty thinking and reasoning. Weakness and fatigue could be experienced as well.

Sources of Vitamin B12

This vitamin can often be found in animal products. Rich sources of vitamin B12 include meat, fish, dairy, and eggs. Other sources include pork, lamb, and beef are also great sources of this vitamin.

Since this is often found in animal products, those who follow the vegan diet become prone to becoming deficient in vitamin B12. This is one of the common problems that vegans face. To combat the deficiency, they need to take vitamin B12 supplements. In addition, they could also opt for breakfast cereals. These must be fortified with vitamin B12. Still, another option is soya milk.