B12 Awareness Day: Why We All Need to Pay Attention

Each year, B12 Awareness Day reminds us just how vital this nutrient is for our health and wellbeing. 

In the UK, thousands of people live with Vitamin B12 deficiency—many without even realising it. Left untreated, low levels of B12 can cause lasting damage, so raising awareness is crucial.

Why Vitamin B12 Matters

Vitamin B12 is essential for:

The nervous system – helping keep our brain and nerves healthy.

Red blood cell production – preventing anaemia and fatigue.

DNA synthesis – supporting cell growth and repair.

Mental health – with deficiency sometimes linked to low mood, memory issues, and confusion.

Without enough B12, daily life can quickly become a struggle, and in severe cases, irreversible nerve damage can occur.

Who’s at Risk in the UK?

According to the NHS, certain groups are more likely to be deficient:

Vegans and vegetarians – as B12 is mainly found in animal products. Many plant-based eaters rely on fortified foods (like breakfast cereals or plant milks) or supplements.

Older adults – absorption of B12 naturally decreases with age.

People with conditions such as pernicious anaemia, Crohn’s disease, or coeliac disease.

Those taking medications such as metformin (for type 2 diabetes) or proton pump inhibitors (used for indigestion and acid reflux).

Recognising the Symptoms

B12 deficiency symptoms can be wide-ranging and easy to miss. Watch for:

Extreme tiredness

Pins and needles (paraesthesia)

Mouth ulcers or a swollen tongue

Memory problems or confusion

Mood changes such as depression or irritability

Vision problems

If left untreated, these symptoms can worsen and cause permanent damage.

Getting Tested and Treated in the UK

If you think you might be deficient, book an appointment with your GP. They can arrange a blood test to check your B12 levels.

Treatment usually involves:

B12 tablets or sprays for mild deficiency or those at risk.

Hydroxocobalamin injections (available on the NHS) for people who cannot absorb B12 properly, such as those with pernicious anaemia.

With the right treatment, symptoms often improve quickly—but ongoing monitoring may be needed.

How to Support B12 Awareness Day

Share information with friends and family—many people don’t know how common B12 deficiency is.

If you follow a plant-based diet, make sure you’re getting enough B12 through fortified foods or supplements.

Support charities and groups that campaign for better recognition and treatment of B12 deficiency in the UK.

On B12 Awareness Day, let’s take the opportunity to talk openly about this hidden health issue, encourage others to seek help if they’re struggling with symptoms, and ensure B12 deficiency gets the recognition it deserves.

Why Vitamin B12 Deficiency Can Be a Serious Issue

Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is an essential nutrient your body needs to function properly. 

It plays a crucial role in red blood cell formation, neurological function, and DNA synthesis. 

Despite its importance, vitamin B12 deficiency is surprisingly common — and it can lead to serious health complications if left untreated.

What Causes Vitamin B12 Deficiency?

There are several reasons why someone might become deficient in B12:

Dietary deficiencies – Those who follow a vegan or vegetarian diet are at higher risk, as B12 is found almost exclusively in animal products such as meat, fish, eggs, and dairy.

Absorption problems – Conditions such as pernicious anaemia, coeliac disease, Crohn’s disease, or certain gastrointestinal surgeries can interfere with B12 absorption.

Ageing – As we age, our ability to absorb B12 from food naturally decreases.

Medication use – Long-term use of certain medications, such as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), metformin, or antacids, can impact absorption.

Symptoms of Vitamin B12 Deficiency

Vitamin B12 deficiency can be sneaky. Early symptoms are often mild and easy to dismiss. However, if the deficiency progresses, symptoms can become severe and even irreversible.

Common symptoms include:

Fatigue and weakness

Pale or jaundiced skin

Pins and needles (paraesthesia)

Mouth ulcers and glossitis (a swollen, inflamed tongue)

Shortness of breath and dizziness

Blurred vision

Mood changes, irritability, or depression

Memory loss or cognitive difficulties

Unsteady movements and balance issues

Left untreated, vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to permanent nerve damage, neurological problems, and megaloblastic anaemia, where red blood cells become too large and can't function properly.

Why It’s Especially Important in Certain Populations

Certain groups are more vulnerable to B12 deficiency and should monitor their levels closely:

Vegans and vegetarians: Without fortified foods or supplements, plant-based diets may lack sufficient B12.

Older adults: Absorption issues become more prevalent with age.

People with gastrointestinal disorders: Diseases like Crohn’s or those who have undergone bariatric surgery can affect B12 uptake.

Pregnant women: Deficiency can impact the baby’s development and increase the risk of neural tube defects.

How to Prevent and Treat B12 Deficiency

Dietary sources of B12 include beef, liver, fish, dairy, and eggs. Fortified cereals and plant milks can also help.

For those at risk, B12 supplements are a safe and effective way to prevent deficiency. These come in tablet form, sublingual (under the tongue), or via injections in more severe cases. The NHS may prescribe B12 injections if deficiency is due to absorption issues or pernicious anaemia.

When to See a Doctor

If you experience ongoing fatigue, memory issues, mood changes, or any of the symptoms listed above, speak to your GP. A simple blood test can diagnose a B12 deficiency, and early detection is key to preventing long-term damage.

In Summary

Vitamin B12 deficiency is more common than many realise and can have significant, even permanent, effects on your health if not addressed. With the right awareness, dietary adjustments, and medical support, it is entirely manageable. Whether you follow a plant-based diet or simply want to protect your wellbeing, understanding the role of B12 could make a huge difference to your long-term health.