Many people over the age of 60 take vitamin B12 with discipline every day, and yet they still feel tired, foggy in mind, frequent dizziness, or that annoying tingling in their hands and feet. Most disconcertingly, when blood tests are done, the results often show “normal” levels. Then the inevitable question arises:
why doesn’t it improve at all if B12 is within the correct values?
The answer is simpler — and more worrisome — than it sounds: In most cases, the problem isn’t a lack of vitamin B12, but the wrong way to take it.
Why Vitamin B12 Is So Important After 60
Vitamin B12 has key functions in the body:
- Keeps nerves and brain healthy
- Involved in the production of red blood cells
- Helps energy metabolism
- Protects memory and balance
When the B12 that reaches the cells is not enough, the first symptoms are usually subtle: persistent tiredness, frequent forgetfulness, clumsiness when walking, numbness or a feeling of “running” in the limbs. Over time, these signs can become severe.