Is Your Vegan or Vegetarian Diet Impacting Your B12 Levels?

Are you a vegan or vegetarian noticing fatigue or brain fog?

Following a plant-based diet is healthy and popular across the UK, but vitamin B12 is one critical nutrient that's hard to get without animal foods. Feeling unusually tired, experiencing mouth ulcers, or struggling with memory and mood? These signs might point to a B12 deficiency.

Why can't you get enough B12 from plants?

Vitamin B12 is only found naturally in animal products. While some plant milks, breakfast cereals, and yeast extracts are fortified, the levels can be inconsistent. For vegans and vegetarians, it's crucial to stay mindful of B12 intake to avoid deficiency.

Typical signs of B12 issues in plant-based eaters:

• Extreme tiredness
• Sore red tongue or mouth ulcers
• Dizziness or feeling faint
• Low mood or irritability
• Visual disturbances

Should you get tested?

Absolutely. Even if you feel well, a deficiency can build slowly. See NHS guidance for more on risks. Regular testing gives peace of mind and helps tailor your nutrition and supplements.

How does the Mayfield Clinic home test work?

Using a TDL Tiny collection kit, you take a quick finger-prick sample at home, post it to the lab, and get results fast—usually within a day. Our Active Vitamin B12 Home Blood Test Kit measures the most relevant part of B12 in your blood for a more meaningful indication of deficiency.

What can you do now?

• Eat foods fortified with B12 frequently
• Take a daily or weekly B12 supplement suited to your needs
• Look out for persistent symptoms and don’t ignore subtle changes

Ready to check your levels? Order your home test kit or book an in-person appointment with one of our GPs at Mayfield Clinic.

Stay healthy and empowered on your plant-based journey

With access to convenient testing and expert support, you can thrive on a vegan or vegetarian diet without worrying about hidden nutrition gaps.