4. Afraid You Have It?
In order to determine whether you have a B12 deficiency, you can have several different tests performed [1]. For example, your doctor might recommend a Complete Blood Count, a homocysteine test, or a methylmalonic acid test.
The most important step, however, is to visit a doctor who has experience in diagnosing and treating B12 deficiencies.
5. Adding B12 to Your Diet
The best way to avoid a vitamin B12 deficiency is to simply make sure you’re getting plenty of it in the first place.
For meat and dairy-eaters, focus on incorporating lean meat and dairy into your diet, such as lean turkey, eggs, and wild-caught fish. Vegans and vegetarians can add nutritional yeast, seaweed, and algae to their diet [2].
However, most people can greatly benefit from an extra supplement. Taking a B12 vitamin every day can help to maintain healthy levels. For a little extra help, some people choose to get B12 shots.