Essentials

Is Your Feet Hurting Every Morning? You Could Be Low on Vitamin B12

Have you woken up in the morning and as soon as you get down from your bed and suddenly feel a sharp pain or tingling in your feet and even some kind of tiredness without any long walks? You probably blamed it on bad posture, or uncomfortable shoes. But what if the real reason is vitamin deficiency? Not only in the morning but any time after you rest for a while and wake up — a sign of Vitamin B12 deficiency.

Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is an essential nutrient that keeps your nerves healthy, supports red blood cell formation and maintains energy levels.

When the body’s B12 levels drop, the proactive nerve coating (called the myelin sheath) slowly starts to get damaged. This leads to a condition known as Peripheral Neuropathy, which means the nerves that carry signals from the brain begin to malfunction or get disturbed.

What is Vitamin B12 and Why is it Important?

Vitamin b12 is also known as cobalamin, one of the most essential vitamins that your body needs, to function properly and effectively. It doesn’t produce on its own , you must get it from food and supplements. It plays an essential role in several functions of your body like nerve health, RBC formation, DNA production, brain function and even energy metabolism. A study shows that people with a pure vegetarian and vegan diet are more prone to b12 deficiency. [1]

The Hidden Connection Between B12 and Foot Pain

When the body’s B12 levels drop, the proactive nerve coating (called the myelin sheath) slowly starts to get damaged. This leads to a condition known as Peripheral Neuropathy, which means the nerves that carry signals from the brain begin to malfunction or get disturbed. Multiple studies show that deficiency of B12 increases the risk of neuropathy [2]
A study shows that b12 deficiency is also associated to diabetic foot ulcers [3]. During the night, blood circulation slows down and due to low nerve health symptoms become more prominent after you wake up.

How Does Vitamin B12 Deficiency Develop?

This deficiency creeps in slowly and often unnoticed. Some common causes may include low dietary intake (very common in vegetarians and vegans), Poor absorption (seen in people with gastric issues) , age related decline and medications.

Why You Shouldn’t Ignore It?

We often ignore foot pain thinking it is normal tiredness or because we had long walks, But if it’s happening every morning especially with tingling and numbness along with difficulty in walking, then it’s a red flag. Several studies show that ignoring these symptoms can lead to permanent nerve damage over time and even, weak eye sight, memory related and psychological issues [4].
These issues become severe over time and cause a negative impact on the nervous system overall. Early correction of b12 levels stops the pain, restores energy, mood and focus.

Who is the most at risk?

Vitamin B12 deficiency can affect anyone, but certain group of people are more prone to it due to their diet, age, medications and absorption issues. It is important for people who fall in this category to pay close attention to b12 intake.

1. Vegetarians And Vegans:

Vitamin b12 is naturally found in animal based foods like eggs, meat, fish and dairy. People who avoid these foods are at a very high risk of deficiency Overtime this deficiency can lead to fatigue, dizziness, tingling in feet, nerve damage, weak eye sight, irritability and even depression in worst case scenarios. Plant based foods don’t naturally contain B12, though some fortified foods like breakfast cereals. Soy milk and nutritional yeast can help. However the amount isn’t always sufficient to maintain healthy levels.

2. People above 50

Along with aging, the body’s ability to absorb B12 also decreases.

Older adults often produce less stomach acid which is crucial for separating B12 from the proteins present in the food. This leads to poor absorption even if they eat foods rich in B12. Hence it causes Memory issues, confusion, Tingling and numbness in hands and feet, Weakness and balance issues. People above 50 should consider taking B12 fortified foods and supplements since these forms are easier for the body to absorb.

3. Those with Diabetes or on Metformin

People suffering from diabetes, especially type 2 diabetes and taking metformin should watch their B12 levels. Long term use of Metformin (a common diabetes medication) can interfere with B12 absorption in the intestine. Studies have shown up to 30% of metformin users develop b12 deficiency and worsens nerve related symptoms which are often mistaken for diabetic neuropathy. People on metformin should consider getting their b12 levels tested every 6-12 months and take supplements if needed (consult physician)[5]

4. People with Gut or Absorption Issues

People with certain gut conditions usually face difficulty absorbing b12 properly. Gastritis, Celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, Bariatric or stomach surgery. In these cases even if the diet is good , the intestine might not absorb enough b12. That is why people with these conditions often need injections and high dose supplements. It is important to consider getting your b12 regularly checked in this condition, to avoid nerve related complications [6].

5. Pregnant and Breastfeeding Women

It is a must for pregnant women to maintain their b12 levels as it is important for the baby’s brain and nervous system. Deficiency during pregnancy can lead to low birth weight, developments delays in the baby, fatigue and weakness in the mother [7].

The Bottom Line

A simple test for b12 levels can help reveal deficiency at the earliest and with the right foods, supplements and medical advice it is possible to store b12 levels and protect your nerves from permanent damage.

FAQ’s

1. What are the first symptoms of Vitamin B12 deficiency?
Early signs include fatigue, numbness, mood swings, and brain fog.

2. Can untreated B12 deficiency cause permanent nerve damage?
Yes, long-term deficiency can lead to irreversible nerve issues.

3. Why are vegetarians more at risk of B12 deficiency?
Because natural Vitamin B12 comes mainly from animal-based foods.

4. Does B12 deficiency affect weight?
Yes, low B12 can slow metabolism and impact weight stability.

5. Can B12 deficiency cause memory problems?
Yes — B12 is essential for healthy brain and nerve function.

6. Do antacid medicines reduce Vitamin B12 absorption?
Yes, long-term use can lower your B12 levels.

7. Is morning dizziness linked to B12 deficiency?
Sometimes — low B12 can affect nerve signaling and blood flow.

8. Can low B12 cause muscle weakness?
Yes — nerves and muscles don’t function well when B12 is low.