5 Signs Your Vitamin B12 Might Be Low – Especially If You Have Diabetes

Do you often feel tired and forgetful, or experience tingling in your hands or feet? These may not just be symptoms of diabetes — they could also be signs of Vitamin B12 deficiency.

Vitamin B12 plays a crucial role in nerve health, red blood cell production, and brain function. Unfortunately, people with diabetes, especially those taking metformin, are more likely to develop low B12 levels — often without realising it.

Here are 5 common signs of B12 deficiency every person with diabetes should know — and how a simple blood test can help prevent long-term damage.

  1. Tingling or Numbness in Hands and Feet

One of the earliest and most common signs of B12 deficiency is peripheral neuropathy — the same type of nerve damage often seen in diabetes.

  • You may feel burning, numbness, or pins-and-needles sensations.
  • It can worsen over time and affect your balance and coordination.

This nerve damage is reversible with timely B12 supplementation, if caught early.

  1. Unexplained Fatigue or Weakness

Low B12 affects red blood cell production, which means less oxygen reaches your tissues, making you feel tired even with enough sleep.

If you are tired all the time, even with your sugars in control, get your B12 checked.

  1. Memory Issues or Brain Fog

Vitamin B12 deficiency can affect brain health, leading to:

  • Poor concentration
  • Forgetfulness
  • Mood swings or even depression

B12 is essential for maintaining sharp mental function, especially as you age.

  1. Pale or Yellow-Tinted Skin

A lack of B12 can lead to megaloblastic anaemia, which may make your skin appear pale or slightly yellow. It also causes weakness and shortness of breath.

B12 is vital for producing healthy red blood cells.

  1. Taking Metformin Long-Term

If you have been using metformin for more than a year, you are at higher risk of B12 deficiency. Metformin may interfere with B12 absorption in the gut.

Regular B12 screening is recommended if you are on metformin therapy.

Normal Vitamin B12 Levels

Category Level (pg/mL)
Normal 200 – 900
Borderline 200 – 300
Deficient < 200

 

The Good News? It’s Easy to Fix

If your levels are low, your doctor may recommend:

  • Oral B12 supplements
  • B12-rich foods (eggs, fish, dairy)
  • Injections (for severe deficiency)

With timely detection and treatment, most B12-related symptoms improve quickly.

Get Tested at Dr. Mohan’s

At Dr. Mohan’s Diabetes Specialities Centre, we offer accurate Vitamin B12 testing as part of our advanced diabetes care packages. Protect your nerves, brain, and energy levels with early action.

Visit us for more: https://drmohans.com/lab/

Book your health package now: https://drmohansdiabetes.co.in/dmdsc_packages/?package=DMD1504