Dietitians want you to know the signs of a vitamin B12 deficiency, which can be caused by a plant-based diet, vegetarianism, or certain medical conditions.
As people age, their bodies have a harder time absorbing nutrients from food. Vitamin B12 is commonly found in animal byproducts, making it difficult for those who follow a plant-based eating plan to get enough.
According to experts, including Lisa Cimperman, R.D., and Angela Grassi, R.D., at least 4% of people between 40 and 59 are lacking in the nutrient, and even more are borderline.
Being too low in vitamin B12 may cause symptoms such as extreme fatigue and vision problems.
Meet the experts: Lisa Cimperman, R.D., a licensed dietitian; Angela Grassi, R.D., a dietitian at the PCOS Nutrition Center
Author's summary: Vitamin B12 deficiency can cause various symptoms.