Vitamin B12 deficiency undermines the body’s vital structure, causing a “tsunami” of symptoms.

Vitamin B12 helps maintain healthy blood and nerve cells in the body and in the formation of DNA, the genetic material in all of our cells.

And if you fall short of the vitamin, the role it plays becomes very clear. It is noteworthy that the symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency are extensive. One way to detect low B12 levels is to feel the touch of the tongue and assess its texture.

According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLB), a soft tongue can be a sign of a vitamin B12 deficiency.

Other signs on your tongue include:

Thicker than usual

-Red color

The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute warns that if left untreated, “a vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to nerve damage. This can cause tingling and numbness in the hands and feet, muscle weakness, and loss of reflexes.”

As explained by the institute: “You may also feel unsteady, lose your balance and have difficulty walking. Vitamin B12 deficiency can cause weak bones and may lead to hip fractures.”

And you should see a doctor if you have symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency, says the British National Health Service (NHS).

The agency explains: “These cases can often be diagnosed based on symptoms and blood test results.”

It is important to diagnose and treat vitamin B12 deficiency as soon as possible. The NHS warns that “although many symptoms improve with treatment, some problems caused by the condition can be untreatable if neglected.”

What causes vitamin B12 deficiency

There are two main causes of vitamin B12 deficiency: pernicious anemia and diet.

Pernicious anemia is the main cause of low vitamin B12, an autoimmune condition that prevents the body from absorbing vitamin B12.

Some people can develop hypovitaminosis as a result of not getting enough vitamin B12 from their diet.

How to treat low vitamin B12

Treatment for vitamin B12 or folic acid deficiency anemia depends on the cause of the condition.

Most people can be treated easily with injections or tablets to replace lost vitamins.

There are two types of vitamin B12 injections: hydroxocobalamin and cyanocobalamin.