One third of the British population could potentially be at risk of B12 deficiency, however, the majority are unaware of this. The symptoms are often mistaken for stress or signs of aging by many individuals.

New YouGov data released by Nature Provides ahead of Vitamin B12 Awareness Day on 23 September reveals a concerning lack of awareness about vitamin B12 deficiency among Brits. The survey of 2,178 UK adults shows that nearly one in three Brits may be at risk, but most do not recognise the warning signs.

The nationally representative survey reveals a clear gap between risk, awareness, and behavior when it comes to vitamin B12 deficiency. Around one-third of Brits follow diets that may limit B12 intake, such as vegan, vegetarian, pescatarian, or reduced red meat diets, yet only 12% take a daily B12 supplement. Additionally, only 23% of respondents believe they are personally at risk for B12 deficiency.

There is also confusion surrounding the symptoms of B12 deficiency, with only 25% of respondents recognizing pins and needles as a classic neurological sign. Instead, 55% link fatigue with B12 deficiency, while 36% think brain fog and 32% think poor memory are warning signs. Shockingly, nearly 1 in 10 respondents wrongly believe constipation or itchy skin are symptoms of B12 deficiency.

However, diet is not the only factor in B12 deficiency. Even those who consume animal products can be low in B12 due to absorption issues, age-related changes, or genetics. This is particularly true for those with common MTHFR gene variants that can reduce the body’s ability to process B12 effectively.

Rachel Aceso, Certified Nutritionist and CEO of Nature Provides, stresses the importance of choosing a bioactive B12 supplement that the body can readily use. She says, “Up to half of Brits carry MTHFR gene variants that reduce how effectively they process vitamin B12. That is why choosing a bioactive B12 is so important. It gives the body what it can actually use, and the difference can be transformative.”

Dr. Simone Raenker, a case study for Nature Provides, knows the struggles of B12 deficiency firsthand. Despite eating well, getting enough sleep, and exercising regularly, she still experienced exhaustion, brain fog, and low mood. “When I switched to a bioactive B12 supplement, I noticed a dramatic improvement within days. It felt like someone had switched the lights back on. I had my energy, clarity, and joy back again,” she says.

Vitamin B12 deficiency is a serious issue that can affect energy, cognition, and nervous system health. With low awareness and limited action, it is important for individuals to educate themselves on the warning signs and choose the right supplements to combat B12 deficiency.