B12 deficiency in kids isn’t always obvious—the symptoms can be subtle and easy to miss, but catching it early is important. Here are the main warning signs:
Feeling tired all the time or lacking energy (even after a good night’s sleep).
Muscle weakness or trouble with coordination (kids may have difficulty walking, balancing, or controlling their movements).
Irritability, crankiness, or mood swings.
Digestive problems like diarrhea, vomiting, constipation, or loss of appetite.
Slow growth or weight loss, and delays in achieving developmental milestones (like sitting up, crawling, talking, or walking).
Neurological symptoms: tingling or numbness in hands and feet (“pins and needles”), poor concentration, memory problems, trouble paying attention, and learning difficulties.
Changes in personality, depression, or behavioral problems.
A swollen or sore tongue (glossitis), sometimes with mouth ulcers, and possibly skin changes like hyperpigmentation or pale/yellow skin.
Seizures or involuntary movements (in severe cases).
Anemia (not enough healthy red blood cells), which makes kids pale, short of breath, and easily fatigued.
Occasionally, B12 deficiency can even be mistaken for autism or developmental delay in kids, as it might affect speech, social skills, motor development, and more.
