What Causes Low Vitamin B12 and When Should You Get Tested?

Do you often feel tired even after a full night’s sleep.? Have you noticed tingling in your hands or feet, or found it harder to concentrate than before? These signs can be easily dismissed as stress or aging, but they may also indicate a more serious issue, a deficiency of vitamin B12. This vitamin is vital for energy, red blood cell production, and nerve health, yet many people do not realise when their levels drop.

This blog explains the causes of low vitamin B12, common symptoms, possible side effects if left untreated, and, most importantly, when a vitamin B12 test should be done.

The Role of Vitamin B12 in Your Health

Vitamin B12 supports some of the most basic functions of the body. It helps produce red blood cells, keeps nerves healthy, supports DNA synthesis, and contributes to mental clarity. Without it, the body struggles to carry oxygen efficiently, which is why fatigue is one of the first warning signs. B12 also plays a role in maintaining mood and brain health, making it an essential nutrient at every age.

Low Vitamin B12 Causes

Dietary Reasons

One of the most common low vitamin B12 causes is diet. Since B12 is found mainly in animal products, people who follow strict vegetarian or vegan diets are at higher risk. Elderly individuals who eat less variety or skip dairy and meat may also face reduced intake.

Absorption Issues

Even if your diet includes enough vitamin B12, your body may not absorb it properly. Pernicious anaemia, a condition that reduces the stomach’s ability to absorb B12, is a major contributor. Surgical procedures on the stomach or small intestine, such as gastric bypass, can also interfere with absorption. Digestive conditions like Crohn’s disease or celiac disease further limit how much B12 the body can take in.

Medication-Related Causes

Long-term use of certain medications can gradually lower B12 levels. Drugs like metformin, which is used for diabetes, and proton pump inhibitors, commonly prescribed for acid reflux, can reduce absorption over time.

Lifestyle Factors

Heavy alcohol use can damage the stomach lining and reduce absorption of nutrients, including B12. Genetics can also play a role, with some people naturally predisposed to poor B12 absorption.

Symptoms of Low Vitamin B12

Recognising the symptoms of low vitamin B12 is not always easy because they overlap with other health issues. Common signs include:

• Persistent fatigue and weakness
• Pale or yellowish skin
• Numbness or tingling in hands and feet
• Difficulty concentrating or memory lapses
• Mood changes such as irritability or depression

If several of these appear together, it may be worth discussing a test with your doctor.

Side Effects of Low B12 if Untreated

Ignoring B12 deficiency can lead to serious problems. Some side effects of low B12 may become permanent if not addressed in time:

• Neurological damage: Prolonged deficiency can cause nerve damage that results in numbness, balance problems, and memory loss.
• Anaemia: Low red blood cell production can cause extreme weakness and breathlessness.
• Mobility issues: Weakness in the legs and balance problems may increase risk of falls.
• Heart health risks: Low B12 has been linked with higher homocysteine levels, which may affect cardiovascular health.
• Developmental issues in infants: If a mother has untreated deficiency during pregnancy, the baby may face developmental delays.

These risks show why it is important not to ignore early symptoms.

When Should You Get Tested

Knowing when vitamin B12 test should be done is crucial. Testing is recommended if you experience persistent fatigue without clear cause, unexplained tingling in the hands or feet, or neurological symptoms. Certain groups are at higher risk and should be more alert:

• People who follow vegan or vegetarian diets
• Elderly individuals
• Patients with digestive conditions like Crohn’s or celiac disease
• People on long-term metformin or acid reflux medication

A B12 test is a simple blood test. Results indicate whether your levels are normal, borderline, or low. Based on the outcome, your doctor can suggest diet changes, supplements, or injections.

Prevention and Management

The good news is that a deficiency of vitamin B12 can often be prevented or managed with the right steps:

• Dietary sources: Meat, fish, eggs, milk, and fortified cereals provide healthy amounts of B12.
• Supplements: Tablets or capsules are effective for many people.
• Injections: For those with absorption problems, doctors may recommend regular B12 injections.
• Monitoring: If you have a chronic condition or are on long-term medication, regular testing helps keep levels in check.

Practical choices like including fortified foods in a vegan diet or consulting a doctor before starting supplements can make a big difference.

Conclusion

Vitamin B12 deficiency is more common than many people realise. It develops slowly, and its symptoms often mimic everyday tiredness or stress. Understanding the low vitamin B12 causes, recognising the symptoms of low vitamin B12, and knowing the possible side effects of low B12 can help you act early. The only way to confirm a deficiency is through a test.

If you are at risk or experiencing symptoms, we encourage you to consult a healthcare provider and get tested. At Apollo Diagnostics, we provide accurate vitamin B12 testing to help you understand your health better and take the right steps toward timely care.