Our body has a unique way of signaling when it is not getting the nutrients. But many of us are either not aware of those signs or simply ignore them. One such signal it gives is about vitamin B12 deficiency. It indicates this through our nails. If you see white spots on nails, this is an indication of a vitamin or mineral deficiency. According to a study, hyperpigmentation of nails can signify a vitamin B12 deficiency. Yes, our nails can clearly tell us about the deficiency of this essential vitamin.
Importance of Vitamin B12
This vitamin is very important for our body. It is needed to form red blood cells (RBC) and DNA. It is RBCs that play the role of transporting oxygen from lungs to body tissues. They ten take carbon dioxide waste to lungs to exhale.
How to avoid vitamin B12 deficiency
According to Ayurveda excerpt Dimple Jangda, this is an essential nutrient. However, our body cannot make Vitamin B12 on its own. So, it is very important to ensure proper diet or supplements to get it.
Those who are pregnant or nursing should be extra careful and vigilant. Also, those who are at risk of deficiency must take extra care.
Foods that can help avoid vitamin B12 deficiency
Vegetables: Vegetables such as spinach, beetroot, alfalfa, potatoes and mushrooms should be included in you diet.
Ghee: It is one of the most popular and favorite ingredients of Indian kitchen. Apart from containing essential fatty acids like omega 3 fatty acid, butyric acid, fat-soluble vitamins like Vitamin A, D, E, K, it also contains vitamin B12. So your mother has always been right giving you rotis with ghee.
Fortified cereals: They are low in sugar and high on fiber, both things required for the best result.
Fortified nutritional yeast: This vegan food product is said to be a very rich source of vitamin B12.
Almond and diary product: Last but not the least, milk and dairy products are essentials. Having almond can be an added advantage.
