Vitamin B12

Vitamin B12 supports your nervous system and enables your brain to produce neurotransmitters. They’re mood-, memory-, and concentration-controlling chemicals.

Low levels of Vitamin B12 have been linked to fatigue, depression, anxiety, and even memory loss. If you’ve been feeling mentally drained despite getting a good amount of sleep, then your body could be sending a signal that there is a deficiency.

This Mental Health Day, we discuss not just emotional health but also the foods that make your mind clear, stable, and strong.

Warning Signs You May Have a Vitamin B12 Deficiency

Being able to recognize warning signs can motivate you to take early action. Some of the warning signs are:

• Recurring fatigue and exhaustion
• Foggy brain or poor concentration
• Mood swings or irritability
• Numbness and tingling in fingers and toes
• Sadness or depression

Since such symptoms go hand in hand with mental health conditions, it’s advisable to get a medical test carried out to establish the reason.

The Connection Between Diet and Mental Health

Your mind and body are a team. As good food ensures your physical health, nutrients like Vitamin B12 contribute to mental well-being.

For example, when you have a Lipid Profile Panel Test done, you’re screening your cholesterol for your heart health—but the same commitment to regular checking can keep your mental health in balance too.

Important Lab Tests That Promote Mental Health

When doctors determine your overall well-being, they generally order a series of lab tests that can pick up on underlying conditions that affect your body and mind:

• Creatinine will check kidney function, as defective kidney function will affect energy and concentration.
• BUN once again checks kidney function, which affects mental acuity.
• ALT checks liver function, an organ that detoxifies and stabilizes mood chemicals.
• TSH checks thyroid function because thyroid failure can be a mimic of depression or anxiety.
• HBA1C checks blood sugar control because unstable blood sugars can affect mood changes.
• Uric acid test can cause fatigue and body pain, thereby causing mental tension.
• HbsAg hepatitis testing can cause fatigue and impact overall health.
• FBS measures the amount of glucose (sugar) in the bloodstream

Along with Vitamin B12, these tests provide a better indication of how your body influences your mind.

Ways to Increase Vitamin B12 Naturally

You can have Vitamin B12 in the form of food items such as fish, eggs, meat, and milk. Vegetarians and vegans can use fortified breakfast cereals or supplements.

But the best way to determine your Vitamin B12 status is a blood test at a good diagnostic lab.

FAQs

Can Vitamin B12 improve mood and decrease depression?

Yes, Vitamin B12 is involved in the production of serotonin, which is a neurotransmitter that controls mood. Not enough B12 leads to depression, while a normal level preserves a balance of emotions.

How often should I have my Vitamin B12 level checked?

That depends on your lifestyle and medical background, but once a year or as a part of your annual health examination would be okay.

Can Vitamin B12 deficiency lead to memory issues?

Yes, a deficiency in B12 can impact the well-being of your nerves and result in forgetfulness, confusion, or even premature cognitive impairment if not treated.

Your Health, Your Peace of Mind

Vitamin B12 may be small, but it plays a big role in your well-being. Don’t ignore the symptoms—be kind to yourself and take control.

Book your Vitamin B12 and full health tests with Medi Linx, your trusted laboratory partner. A healthy mind begins with a healthy body.