Summary

• Vitamin B deficiency happens when your body doesn't have enough vitamin B.
• Your body needs a certain amount of each type of vitamin B to function well.
• Severe vitamin B deficiency can cause diseases such as beriberi or pellagra.
• People who are vitamin B deficient may feel tired, numbness or weakness, among other symptoms.

These key facts are from healthdirect.gov.au (accessed 29 Jan 2025). Visit the healthdirect website for more information about vitamin B12 & folate deficiency.

Relevant Tests

If your doctor suspects you have vitamin B12 & folate deficiency, they may request one or more tests.

If you are diagnosed with vitamin B12 & folate deficiency, some of these tests will be used to monitor and manage your condition.

Find information about specific tests:

• Vitamin B12 & folate
• Full blood count
• Homocysteine