Vitamin b12 deficiency warning - can you taste this in your mouth?

Vitamin B12 is used by the body to make red blood cells, according to the NHS. It also keeps the nervous system healthy, while helping with the production of DNA. Common vitamin B12

deficiency symptoms include headaches, fatigue and a loss of appetite. But, you could also be at risk of the condition if you have a metallic taste in your mouth, it’s been claimed. A

metallic taste in the mouth may be caused by not getting enough vitamin B12 in your diet, said physician Dr Andrew Weil. While it may not necessarily be something to worry about, a metal

taste in the mouth has been linked to a vitamin B12 deficiency, a vitamin D deficiency, or even a zinc deficiency. Some patients may even lose their sense of taste without enough vitamin

B12, added Harvard Medical School. “A metallic taste in the mouth is a common complaint and can be due to a variety of causes,” said Dr Weil. “In the absence of other symptoms, it is

unlikely that a metallic taste in your mouth indicates serious disease. “Metal taste is commonly associated with a deficiency of vitamin B12, D, or zinc. “You also might consider visiting

your dentist, because the funny metallic taste in your mouth could be a symptom of gum disease.” The metallic taste could be a sign of a vitamin B12 deficiency if it’s accompanied with other

tell-tale signs. A smooth-looking tongue is one of the more common symptoms of a deficiency. It looks smooth as the tongue becomes inflamed, and the characteristic bobbles of taste buds

become difficult to spot. Patients may also experience mouth ulcers, a burning sensation in the mouth, or pins and needles in the tongue. Outside of the mouth, symptoms can include vision

loss, constipation, pale skin, or nerve problems. These nerve problems can include a numbness or tingling in the extremities, or even difficulty walking. You could top up on vitamin B12 by

eating more beef, salmon, dairy foods, eggs, or liver. See a GP if you’re worried about the signs or symptoms of a vitamin B12 deficiency. Diagnosing the condition early is crucial, as it

can lead to some heart conditions or temporary infertility.