Vitamin B12

Vitamin B12 comes from meat, eggs and dairy. Deficiency is common in vegetarians, older people and people with diabetes who take metformin for a long time.

It causes anaemia with large red cells, tingling in hands and feet and poor concentration. Treatment is tablets or injections depending on the cause.

Preparation before the test

• Fast at least 8 hours (water only).
• Stop B12 supplements two days before if your doctor agrees.

This information is for awareness only and is not a substitute for medical advice — your treating doctor interprets the result for your case.