Vitamin B12 is a crucial nutrient that plays a key role in keeping your nervous system healthy, supporting red blood cell production, and maintaining energy levels. A deficiency in Vitamin B12 can lead to fatigue, weakness, memory issues, mood changes, and even long-term nerve damage if left untreated.

The good news? Vitamin B12 deficiency is preventable with the right lifestyle choices, dietary habits, and awareness of your personal risk factors. Here’s how to stay ahead and protect your health.

1. Know What Causes Vitamin B12 Deficiency

Understanding what leads to deficiency is the first step in prevention. Common causes include:

Poor dietary intake (especially in vegan or vegetarian diets)

Digestive conditions that affect nutrient absorption (e.g. coeliac disease, Crohn’s, gastritis)

Older age, which can reduce stomach acid production needed to absorb B12

Medications, such as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) or metformin

Pernicious anaemia, an autoimmune condition affecting B12 absorption

If any of these apply to you, regular monitoring and prevention become especially important.

2. Eat Foods Rich in Vitamin B12

The most natural way to prevent deficiency is through your diet. Vitamin B12 is found in:

Meat (beef, liver, chicken)

Fish and shellfish (salmon, tuna, clams)

Dairy products (milk, cheese, yoghurt)

Eggs

Fortified foods (plant milks, breakfast cereals, nutritional yeast)

If you follow a vegetarian or vegan diet, look for fortified products or consider supplements to meet your daily needs.

3. Consider a Vitamin B12 Supplement

For individuals at higher risk such as older adults, vegans, or those with absorption issues—a daily or weekly B12 supplement may be recommended.

These come in various forms, including:

Tablets or capsules

Sublingual (under-the-tongue) sprays

B12 injections (for diagnosed deficiency, usually through your GP or pharmacy)

Always speak with a healthcare professional before starting a supplement to determine the right dose for you.

4. Get Regular Blood Tests if You're at Risk

Routine blood tests can help catch deficiency early, often before symptoms appear. Ask your GP or pharmacist about checking your B12 levels if:

You follow a plant-based diet

You’re over 60

You take medication that affects absorption

You’ve experienced symptoms like fatigue, dizziness, or tingling in your hands or feet

At Milnthorpe Pharmacy, we can help guide you through the process and support you with testing referrals or treatment plans if needed.

5. Treat Underlying Conditions Promptly

If you have a medical condition that affects absorption of Vitamin B12, work with your healthcare provider to manage it properly. This may include:

Managing gut health for better absorption

Monitoring B12 levels during long-term medication use

Regular B12 injections if diagnosed with pernicious anaemia

Preventing Vitamin B12 deficiency is about understanding your body’s needs and being proactive with your health.

Need Help? Visit Milnthorpe Pharmacy

At Milnthorpe Pharmacy, we offer expert advice, NHS-backed support, and private treatment options for Vitamin B12 deficiency. Whether you're looking for a supplement recommendation, symptoms assessment, or ongoing care, our team is here to help.

Book a consultation today at milnthorpepharmacy@outlook.com to discuss your Vitamin B12 needs and keep your energy and wellbeing on track.