No fruit naturally contains significant Vitamin B12; it's primarily found in animal products, but some plant-based options like fortified cereals, non-dairy milks, nutritional yeast, and certain seaweeds can provide it, while fruits like bananas and citrus can help with absorption. B12 is made by bacteria, not plants, so vegans and vegetarians need reliable fortified sources or supplements for this essential vitamin, as fruits don't count as a primary source.
For pregnancy, focus on getting enough Vitamin B12 from animal products (meat, dairy, eggs) or fortified foods, as it's vital for fetal brain/nerve development; if vegan or deficient, supplement, with forms like cyanocobalamin (common in supplements) or hydroxocobalamin (food/injections) being effective, but always check with your doctor for personalized advice on dosage and the best type for your needs.
Yes, Vitamin B12 can help with vertigo, especially if a deficiency is the underlying cause, as low B12 levels can lead to neurological problems, anemia, poor nerve function, and reduced blood flow to the brain, all contributing to dizziness and imbalance, with supplementation showing promise in improving symptoms.
The foods highest in Vitamin B12 are animal products, with clams and liver (beef, lamb) being exceptionally rich sources, often providing several hundred percent of the daily value in a single serving, alongside seafood like mussels, sardines, and salmon, dairy, eggs, and fortified cereals and nutritional yeast for vegans.
To quickly increase B12, focus on animal products (meat, fish, dairy, eggs) and fortified foods (cereals, plant milks, nutritional yeast), but for a significant deficiency or rapid boost, especially if dietary changes aren't enough, consult a doctor for high-dose supplements or B12 injections, as severe cases require medical intervention for proper absorption and treatment, note NHS and Healthline.
Symptoms of vitamin B12 or folate deficiency
B12 deficiency can trigger specific food cravings, most notably for meat, fish, or eggs, as the body seeks animal-based sources to replenish the vitamin, especially in those on vegetarian/vegan diets or older adults. While cravings for sugary or salty foods can also signal general B-vitamin issues, the distinct urge for protein-rich animal products is a key indicator, but professional testing is crucial for confirmation.
“Our study suggests that for people with benign paroxysmal positional vertigo, taking a supplement of vitamin D and calcium is a simple, low-risk way to prevent vertigo from recurring,” said Dr. Kim, who added, “It is especially effective if you have low vitamin D levels to begin with.”
Taking vitamin B12 daily is generally safe for most people, as it's water-soluble and excess is flushed out, but high doses can cause mild side effects like headaches, nausea, dizziness, or diarrhea in some individuals, while very high levels (especially from injections) might rarely link to other issues, so it's best to stick to recommended amounts unless treating a diagnosed deficiency.
Methylcobalamin is the most bioavailable form of B12, meaning it's readily absorbed and used by the body. It contains a methyl group, which is necessary for a process known as methylation—vital for many body functions, including detoxification, DNA repair, and the production of neurotransmitters.
Vitamin B12 deficiency can sometimes lead to temporary infertility, an inability to conceive. This usually improves with appropriate vitamin B12 treatment.
During pregnancy, ensuring adequate vitamin B12 levels is crucial for fetal development and maternal health. The third trimester is especially significant as the fetus undergoes rapid growth and development, necessitating adequate nutrient transfer from the mother.
Vitamin B12 Rich Dry Fruits
Plant-based produce, which are the sources for most of the other vitamins we need, contain almost no B12 – whether fruit, vegetables, nuts or seeds. Only fermented plant foods, such as sauerkraut and beer, as well as an algae called chlorella contain small amounts of the vitamin.
However, if you are looking for Vitamin B12-rich fruits, some studies suggest that certain vitamin B12 fruits, such as bananas, apples, and berries (blueberries and strawberries), can increase vitamin B12 levels. No significant B12 content is present in these fruits to meet your needs.
One of the reasons for vertigo, which patients describe as a 'feeling of turning', is a lack of vitamins. Yeditepe University Hospitals Otolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery Specialists, who drew attention to the latest research, said "Iron deficiency anemia, vitamin B12 and D deficiency cause vertigo".
If your dizziness is caused by overheating or not being hydrated enough, rest in a cool place and drink water or a sports drink (Gatorade, Powerade, others).
Eating foods rich in potassium, like bananas, can help maintain electrolyte balance, while citrus fruits and berries provide antioxidants that support circulation. Staying hydrated with water and consuming complex carbohydrates, such as whole grains, can help prevent dizziness caused by low blood sugar.
Cutaneous manifestations associated with vitamin B12 deficiency are skin hyperpigmentation, vitiligo, angular stomatitis, and hair changes. A diagnosis of vitamin B12 deficiency is often overlooked in its early stages because these signs are not specific to vitamin B12 deficiency alone.
Foods or drinks to avoid
Causes of Vitamin B12 deficiency
Five common symptoms of anemia are fatigue/weakness, pale or yellowish skin, shortness of breath, a fast or irregular heartbeat, and dizziness or headaches, all resulting from a lack of healthy red blood cells to carry oxygen. Other signs can include cold hands/feet, brittle nails, or unusual cravings like ice (pica).
You might want to investigate a B12 deficiency if you are experiencing foot pain or lower limb pain. Vitamin B12 is an essential nutrient, primarily found in animal products, that plays a key role in maintaining nerve function, producing red blood cells, and synthesizing DNA.