Feb 14, 2023Vegetarian foods to treat vitamin B12 deficiency Tenzin Chodon
The risk of vitamin B12 deficiency
Vitamin B12 is an essential nutrient that helps boost brain and nerve health. It also helps form red blood cells and aids in the production of DNA. Vitamin B12 deficiency can be extremely concerning, especially when it starts causing neurological problems.iStock
Symptoms to note
Vision problems, memory loss and pins and needles (paraesthesia) are some of the common neurological symptoms. A patient may also experience fatigue, body ache,headache and more. iStock
What if you're a vegetarian
Most sources of vitamin B12 are non-vegetarian foods, which is why vegetarians can be more prone to B12 deficiency. However, here are some foods that can help non-meat eaters fill their fill of this nutrient.iStock
Yogurt
If you're a vegetarian who consumes dairy foods and is looking for a vitamin B12 source, you can opt for yogurt. This delicious treat contains vitamin B12 along with other nutrients including vitamins A, vitamin C, and calcium.iStock
Cheese
Who doesn't like cheese? But did you know it contains a good amount of vitamin B12, calcium, protein and more.iStock
Paneer
Paneer is a rich Vitamin B12 source for vegetarians in India. It also contains protein, calcium and dietary fiber.iStock
Fortified cereals
If you're a vegetarian or vegan, go for fortified cereals to load up on your vitamin B12 levels.iStock
Shiitake mushroom
Shiitake mushrooms contain vitamin B12. While it does not contain a large amount of the vitamin, vegetarians can have it to increase at least a certain level of the nutrient.iStock
Tempeh
Tempeh is a fermented soybean food item that is said to be rich in vitamin B12. It also contains protein, is rich in fiber, iron and is gut friendly.iStock