Scientific research has shed light on how nutrients affect mental health, highlighting the serious effects of deficiencies.
Among the more severe deficiencies is vitamin B12, which plays a unique role in nerve and brain function.
Michelle Griff recently shared a cautionary tale about the condition after it left her unable to function.
In a recent clip, she said she spent her first two days in the hospital unable to understand why she couldn't speak or walk: "I was so naive about what the next two years would look like.”
B12 deficiency is typically treated with injections or oral supplements
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“Thinking I had a virus and that I would be okay in a few days, this was the beginning of the most terrifying thing I’ve ever been through.
“I couldn’t even talk or hold a conversation. My whole body was in chronic pain. I had heart palpitations, slurred speech, a drooping face, and chronic neurological symptoms.”
Even since starting treatment with B12 injections, Michelle was told it could take years for her symptoms to clear.
These include “stomach issues [ranging] from constipation, diarrhoea, excess gas, and chronic pain".
Michelle also described “pain on the level of labour pains” and added: “I also had chronic dizziness, and I still experience this.
“My legs go jelly still too, but I’m so much better than I was in the bad days.”
The NHS confirms that vitamin B12 or folate deficiency anaemia generally causes wide-ranging symptoms that develop gradually and worsen the longer the condition goes untreated.
“See a GP if you’re experiencing symptoms of vitamin B12 or folate deficiency anaemia,” the health body urges.
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Early detection of B12 deficiency is important
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It also points out: “These conditions can often be diagnosed based on your symptoms and the results of a blood test.”
“It’s important for vitamin B12 or folate deficiency anaemia to be diagnosed and treated as soon as possible.”
B12 deficiency is typically treated with injections or oral supplements, but the duration will vary depending on the cause and severity of the deficiency.
The injections are often used initially to raise B12 levels rapidly, particularly in severe cases.
