Symptoms of vitamin B deficiency may vary depending on which B vitamin you’re deficient in. Here are five types of Vitamin B deficiencies.
Symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency may include fatigue, loss of appetite, headache, skin paleness, weight loss, mouth ulcers, numbness and tingling in the hands and feet and shortness of breath. The best sources of vitamin B12 are meat, including fish and poultry, eggs, cow’s milk and cheese.
Vitamin B6 deficiency is not common but symptoms may include nausea, itchy rash or cracks around the mouth (cheilosis), susceptibility to infections, irritability, depression and confusion. Foods high in vitamin B6 include poultry, fish, potatoes, fruits, except for citrus fruits.
Vitamin B1 deficiency is rare and vitamin B2 deficiency is very rare. People who drink high amounts of alcohol have a higher risk of developing these deficiencies. This may cause symptoms like confusion and cracks along the sides of the mouth.
Vitamin B3 symptoms may include digestive issues like nausea and abdominal cramps. Severe deficiency may also cause mental confusion along with fatigue, hallucinations and constipation.
Low levels of vitamin B9 can result in megaloblastic anaemia, which causes weakness. Some may experience trouble concentrating, headaches, heart palpitations and changes in skin, hair, or fingernail colour. The best foods for vitamin B9 include dark green leafy vegetables, oranges, beans and peas.