A surprising symptom in your feet could be a symptom of a deficiency in a crucial nutrient, experts have warned. But luckily, you can increase your intake by eating some very common foods.
Vitamin B12 is typically sourced from foods like eggs, beef, chicken, and cheese, and is crucial for various bodily functions. This includes wound healing, as the essential nutrient plays a pivotal role in the production of red blood cells that facilitate oxygen transport throughout the body.
This process is vital for maintaining sharp vision, strong immunity, effective protein absorption, DNA synthesis, and the creation of red blood cells, reports Surrey Live.
A shortfall in vitamin B12 can impede wound recovery in several ways, an expert from the University of Nottingham has said. A key protein called intrinsic factor (IF), which is produced in the stomach, combines with vitamin B12 to ensure its reabsorption during digestion.
However, if the immune system mistakenly attacks stomach cells, IF production may be insufficient, leading to poor vitamin B12 uptake.
The specialist pointed out that “lack of vitamin B can affect wound healing in a number of ways”, especially regarding the health of one’s feet. If you experience tingling sensations in your feet, it’s advised to consult a GP.
Depending on the severity of the deficiency, healthcare professionals might recommend high-dose vitamin B12 supplements or even weekly injections to correct the imbalance. It’s critical to tackle any lack of vitamin B12 promptly to avoid the risk of severe neurological complications and blood disorders.
Harvard Medical School has issued a warning that “vitamin B12 deficiency can be slow to develop, causing symptoms to appear gradually and intensify over time.” The esteemed institution also highlighted that deficiencies “might also occur following weight-loss surgery too.”
They advised that overindulging in heartburn medication may result in lower stomach acid production, essential for Vitamin B12 absorption, potentially triggering a deficiency. Vitamin B12 supplements can be bought online, in chemists or prescribed by a doctor.
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