B12, the Often-Missing Vitamin: Mouth Symptoms That Warn of Health Risks
Two subtle changes in the mouth may reveal a deficiency in a vital vitamin that affects blood, nerves, and energy.
We all know that vitamins and nutrients are essential for the proper functioning of the body, and we usually get them through food. However, sometimes a deficiency can occur, and two unusual symptoms inside the mouth may signal a lack of the important vitamin B12.
Vitamin B12 plays a key role in the body: it maintains the health of blood cells and nerves and helps prevent anemia — a condition that can cause chronic fatigue and weakness. While tiredness, numbness, and weight loss are common signs of B12 deficiency, there are lesser-known symptoms as well, reports Express.co.uk via Telegrafi.
Warning signs inside the mouth
According to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS), a painful, red tongue — medically known as glossitis — can signal a vitamin B12 deficiency. Glossitis causes the tongue to change color and shape, becoming sore, red, and swollen. Because of the inflammation, the tongue may also appear unusually smooth, as the tiny bumps that contain taste buds disappear.
Another possible symptom is mouth ulcers — small, painful sores inside the mouth.
Causes and solutions
Insufficient vitamin B12 can lead to anemia, and one of its symptoms is a loss of taste. Deficiency most often occurs due to an unbalanced diet. A diet rich in meat, fish, and dairy products usually provides enough of this vitamin. Therefore, people who avoid these foods are at a higher risk of developing a deficiency.
Anemia caused by low B12 levels is typically treated with injections. If you suspect you might have a deficiency, it is recommended to consult your doctor, who may advise a blood test to check your B12 levels.
