How itching can indicate a vitamin B12 deficiency
Pharmacist Dirk | Founder Metis Supplements
Last updated: 11 April 2026
Key Facts
- Een vitamine B12-tekort kan jeuk en tintelingen veroorzaken door aantasting van de zenuwbescherming (myeline)
- Vegans, ouderen en gebruikers van maagzuurremmers lopen een verhoogd risico op B12-tekort
- Laat je B12-waarden controleren via een bloedtest als je last hebt van onverklaarbare jeuk of vermoeidheid
What is vitamin B12 and why is it important?
Vitamin B12 is an important water-soluble vitamin that is needed for the formation of red blood cells, the functioning of the nervous system, and the synthesis of DNA. It also plays a role in the metabolism of amino acids and fatty acids, which is essential for proper energy production in our body. Additionally, vitamin B12 is needed for the development and function of the brain.
The role of vitamin B12 in the body
Vitamin B12 is essential for the formation of red blood cells, which transport oxygen to all parts of our body. A vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to anemia, in which the body cannot produce enough healthy red blood cells to meet the oxygen demand. This can lead to fatigue, weakness, and pale skin. In addition, vitamin B12 is needed to keep the nervous system healthy. It plays a role in the production of myelin, a substance that protects nerve pathways and improves the transmission of nerve signals. A vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to neurological symptoms such as numbness and tingling in the hands and feet, as well as muscle weakness and coordination problems.
Sources of vitamin B12
Vitamin B12 is primarily found in animal products, such as meat, fish, eggs, and dairy products. This means that people who follow a vegan or strict vegetarian diet have an increased risk of vitamin B12 deficiency. Although there are also plant-based foods that contain vitamin B12, the absorption of this plant-based form of vitamin B12 is often less efficient.
Vitamin B12 is a water-soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in the body. It is involved in various important processes, including the formation of red blood cells, the functioning of the nervous system, and the synthesis of DNA. Without sufficient vitamin B12, various health problems can arise.
One of the most important functions of vitamin B12 is the formation of red blood cells. Red blood cells are responsible for transporting oxygen throughout the body. A vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to anemia, resulting in fatigue, weakness, and pale skin. It is therefore essential to get enough vitamin B12 to maintain the health of red blood cells.
In addition, vitamin B12 plays an important role in the nervous system. It is involved in the production of myelin, a substance that protects nerve pathways and improves the transmission of nerve signals. A vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to neurological symptoms such as numbness and tingling in the hands and feet, as well as muscle weakness and coordination problems. It is therefore vital to consume sufficient vitamin B12 to keep the nervous system healthy.
Besides its role in the formation of red blood cells and the functioning of the nervous system, vitamin B12 is also involved in the metabolism of amino acids and fatty acids. This is essential for proper energy production in our body. Vitamin B12 helps with the breakdown and processing of amino acids and fatty acids, allowing our body to produce the energy it needs to function properly.
To get enough vitamin B12, it is important to follow a varied diet. Animal products such as meat, fish, eggs, and dairy products are good sources of vitamin B12. However, people who follow a vegan or strict vegetarian diet have an increased risk of vitamin B12 deficiency, because these foods are not part of their diet. Although there are plant-based foods that contain vitamin B12, the absorption of this plant-based form of vitamin B12 is often less efficient. It may therefore be necessary for people who do not consume animal products to take vitamin B12 supplements to ensure they get enough of this vitamin.
Symptoms of a vitamin B12 deficiency
A vitamin B12 deficiency can cause various symptoms, including fatigue, weakness, and dizziness. However, these symptoms can also be caused by other factors, so it is important to obtain a proper diagnosis. In some cases, itching can be an early sign of a vitamin B12 deficiency.
Itching as an early sign of deficiency
Although itching is not often associated with a vitamin B12 deficiency, there are some studies that suggest a connection. Research into the relationship between vitamin B12 and itching has shown that some people with a vitamin B12 deficiency may experience itchy skin rashes. This itching can occur on various parts of the body, such as the arms, legs, back, or abdomen. However, it is important to note that itching can also be caused by other factors, such as allergic reactions, skin conditions, or exposure to irritating substances. Therefore, it is necessary to rule out other possible causes before attributing itching solely to a vitamin B12 deficiency.
In addition to itching, there are other symptoms that may indicate a vitamin B12 deficiency. One of these symptoms is fatigue. Vitamin B12 plays an important role in converting food into energy, so a deficiency can lead to a lack of energy and constant fatigue. Additionally, a vitamin B12 deficiency can also cause weakness, making daily activities more difficult.
Another symptom of a vitamin B12 deficiency is dizziness. This can occur as a result of a disruption in the nervous system caused by a vitamin B12 deficiency. Dizziness can lead to a feeling of disorientation and can affect daily functioning.
Other common symptoms
In addition to itching, fatigue, and dizziness, there are other common symptoms that may indicate a vitamin B12 deficiency. One of these symptoms is shortness of breath. A vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to a decrease in red blood cells, which can result in shortness of breath and a rapid heartbeat.
Pale skin can also be a sign of a vitamin B12 deficiency. This is because vitamin B12 plays an important role in the production of red blood cells, which transport oxygen throughout the body. A vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to a decrease in red blood cells, which can result in pale skin.
Tingling and numbness in the hands and feet can also occur with a vitamin B12 deficiency. This is caused by nerve damage, which can occur as a result of a vitamin B12 deficiency. These symptoms can affect daily functioning and can lead to problems with fine motor skills.
Finally, problems with coordination and balance can also occur with a vitamin B12 deficiency. Vitamin B12 plays an important role in maintaining a healthy nervous system, so a deficiency can lead to problems with coordination and balance.
If you experience one or more of these symptoms, it is important to consult a doctor for a proper diagnosis. A blood test can help identify a vitamin B12 deficiency and your doctor can advise you on the appropriate treatment.
The connection between vitamin B12 and itching
Although there is some evidence for a relationship between vitamin B12 deficiency and itching, it is important to note that this association has not yet been fully clarified. Scientists suspect that a vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to changes in the skin barrier, making the skin more sensitive to itching. However, more research is still needed to better understand this connection.
Scientific research on the relationship
There is still limited scientific research on the relationship between vitamin B12 and itching. However, one study has shown that treating a vitamin B12 deficiency can reduce itching in patients who previously suffered from itchy skin rashes. These findings suggest that vitamin B12 supplementation may be useful in treating itching in people with a vitamin B12 deficiency.
Possible causes of itching due to vitamin B12 deficiency
Although the mechanism behind itching in a vitamin B12 deficiency is not yet fully understood, there are some possible causes being investigated. One theory is that a vitamin B12 deficiency can increase the production of histamine, a substance involved in allergic reactions and itching. Another theory is that vitamin B12 plays a role in the production of collagen, a substance that keeps the skin firm and healthy. A vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to disruptions in collagen production, which can contribute to itchy skin rashes.
In addition to these possible causes, there are also other factors that can contribute to itching in a vitamin B12 deficiency. One of these factors is the influence of vitamin B12 on the nervous system. Vitamin B12 is essential for the health of nerve cells, and a deficiency can lead to nerve damage. This damage can in turn cause itching by disrupting nerve signals in the skin.
Another factor that may play a role in itching due to vitamin B12 deficiency is the influence of vitamin B12 on the immune system. Vitamin B12 is involved in the production of white blood cells, which play an important role in the immune system. A vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to a weakened immune system, making the skin more sensitive to itching and inflammation.
Further research is needed to better understand these possible causes and mechanisms. It is important to emphasize that vitamin B12 deficiency is only one of many possible causes of itching, and that a thorough diagnosis by a medical professional is essential for proper treatment.
How to diagnose and treat a vitamin B12 deficiency
Diagnostic tests for vitamin B12 deficiency
If you experience symptoms that may indicate a vitamin B12 deficiency, such as itching, fatigue, or neurological problems, it is important to see a doctor for a proper diagnosis. The doctor can order a blood test to measure the vitamin B12 level in your body. A low vitamin B12 level may indicate a deficiency and require further evaluation.
A vitamin B12 deficiency can have various causes. One of the most common causes is a lack of intrinsic factor, a protein needed for the absorption of vitamin B12 in the intestines. This can lead to reduced absorption of vitamin B12, even if you get enough vitamin B12 through your diet. Other causes of a deficiency include a vegan diet, certain medications that can affect the absorption of vitamin B12, and certain stomach and intestinal diseases.
Once you have been diagnosed with a vitamin B12 deficiency, it is important to determine the cause of the deficiency. This can help determine the most effective treatment options. In some cases, it may be necessary to treat the underlying cause of the deficiency, such as stopping the use of medications that affect the absorption of vitamin B12 or treating an underlying stomach or intestinal disease.
Treatment options for vitamin B12 deficiency
If the diagnosis shows that you have a vitamin B12 deficiency, your doctor may recommend a treatment option. This may consist of taking vitamin B12 supplements, which are available in tablet, capsule, or injection form. The correct dosage depends on the severity of the deficiency and other individual factors. In addition to supplementation, it may also be necessary to adjust your diet to increase your vitamin B12 intake. It is important to follow your doctor's instructions and regularly have your vitamin B12 level checked to ensure that the deficiency is adequately treated.
In addition to vitamin B12 supplements, there are also foods that are naturally rich in vitamin B12. These include meat, fish, eggs, dairy products, and certain seaweeds. If you follow a vegan diet, it can be difficult to get enough vitamin B12 from your diet, because plant-based foods generally do not contain vitamin B12. In that case, it may be necessary to take a supplement or consume fortified foods that contain vitamin B12.
It is also important to know that a vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to various health problems if not adequately treated. These can include neurological problems, anemia, and fatigue. Therefore, it is essential to take a vitamin B12 deficiency seriously and follow the recommended treatment options.
Prevention of vitamin B12 deficiency
To prevent a vitamin B12 deficiency, it is important to follow a balanced and varied diet that is rich in foods containing vitamin B12. This includes meat, fish, eggs, dairy products, and certain breakfast cereals that are fortified with vitamin B12. For people who follow a vegan or strict vegetarian diet, it may be necessary to take vitamin B12 supplements to meet their nutritional needs. Additionally, it is important to undergo regular health check-ups and have any symptoms of a vitamin B12 deficiency evaluated promptly.
Although itching is a common complaint and usually does not have a serious cause, it can sometimes be a sign of an underlying health problem, such as a vitamin B12 deficiency. If you regularly experience itching, especially in combination with other symptoms, it may be advisable to consult a doctor. A proper diagnosis and treatment can help you identify the cause of the itching and take appropriate measures to improve your health.
In addition to following a diet rich in foods containing vitamin B12, there are other ways to prevent a vitamin B12 deficiency. For example, it is important to get enough sunlight, as this can help with the absorption of vitamin B12 in the body. Additionally, it is advisable to avoid stress as much as possible, as stress can affect the absorption of vitamin B12.
Furthermore, it is important to know that certain medications can reduce the absorption of vitamin B12. It is therefore advisable to always read the package insert of medications and discuss any questions about this with a doctor or pharmacist. They can provide advice on possible alternatives or additional measures to prevent a vitamin B12 deficiency.
Moreover, it is also important to know that the need for vitamin B12 can vary depending on factors such as age, gender, and health status. It is therefore wise to regularly have your vitamin B12 level checked through blood tests. This way, any deficiency can be detected early, and timely intervention can prevent health problems.
In addition to following a balanced diet and taking any supplements, it can also be useful to know which foods can promote the absorption of vitamin B12. For example, foods rich in vitamin C, such as citrus fruits and green leafy vegetables, can help with the absorption of vitamin B12 in the body. Additionally, foods rich in folic acid, such as legumes and whole grains, can also promote the absorption of vitamin B12.
All in all, it is important to be aware of the possible causes and consequences of a vitamin B12 deficiency. By maintaining a healthy lifestyle, undergoing regular health check-ups, and taking supplements if necessary, you can ensure that you get enough vitamin B12 and stay healthy.
At Metis, we use Vitamin B12 as a co-factor in the following formulas:
- Metis Anti-Stress 03: 500µg Vitamin B12
- Metis Energy 06: 2µg Vitamin B12
- Metis Multivit Gummy: 1.25µg Vitamin B12
Frequently Asked Questions
This duo contains natural ingredients that help your body lower your cortisol levels and support your sleep.
Ontdek Sleep 08 + Anti-Stress 03 Deal