Vitamin B12 Normal Range Information
Learn about the normal range of Vitamin B12 levels, its importance for health, deficiency symptoms, and when to seek medical advice.
Written by Dr. D Bhanu Prakash
Reviewed by Dr. Rohinipriyanka Pondugula MBBS
Last updated on 31st Jul, 2025
Introduction
Vitamin B12 is an essential nutrient that plays a crucial role in keeping your body healthy. It helps in forming red blood cells, maintaining nerve function, and supporting DNA production. Since your body doesn’t produce Vitamin B12 naturally, you must get it from food or supplements.
But how do you know if your Vitamin B12 levels are normal? Let’s break it down in simple terms.
What Is the Normal Range for Vitamin B12?
The normal range for Vitamin B12 in the blood is generally:
200–900 picograms per milliliter (pg/mL)
However, different labs may have slightly varying ranges. Here’s a quick guide:
Below 200 pg/mL: Likely deficient (needs medical attention)
200–300 pg/mL: Borderline low (may need supplements)
Above 300 pg/mL: Generally considered normal
If your levels are low, your doctor may recommend further tests like methylmalonic acid (MMA) or homocysteine tests, as they can give a clearer picture of B12 deficiency.
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Buy 2, Get EXTRA 15% OFF!Why Is Vitamin B12 Important?
Vitamin B12 is vital for:
Energy production (prevents fatigue and weakness)
Nerve health (prevents tingling or numbness)
Red blood cell formation (prevents anaemia)
Brain function (supports memory and mood)
Symptoms of Low Vitamin B12
If your levels drop, you may experience:
Extreme tiredness or weakness
Pale or yellowish skin
Tingling or numbness in hands and feet
Difficulty walking or balance problems
Memory loss or confusion
Mood changes (depression or irritability)
Smooth, red tongue (glossitis)
Since these symptoms develop slowly, many people don’t realise they have a deficiency until it becomes severe.
Consult Top Specialists for Personalised Tips
Who Is at Risk of Vitamin B12 Deficiency?
Some people are more likely to have low B12 levels, including:
Vegetarians/Vegans (B12 is mainly found in animal products)
Older adults (stomach acid decreases with age, reducing B12 absorption)
People with digestive disorders (like Crohn’s disease or celiac disease)
Those who’ve had weight loss surgery (affects nutrient absorption)
Long-term users of acid-reducing medications (like PPIs or metformin)
How to Maintain Healthy Vitamin B12 Levels
1. Eat B12-Rich Foods
Include these in your diet:
Meat (beef, chicken, liver)
Fish (salmon, tuna)
Eggs and dairy (milk, cheese, yogurt)
Fortified cereals and plant-based milk (for vegetarians/vegans)
2. Consider Supplements
If you’re at risk of deficiency, your doctor may suggest:
Oral B12 tablets
B12 injections (for severe deficiency)
3. Get Regular Check-ups
If you have symptoms or risk factors, a simple blood test can check your levels.
When to See a Doctor?
If you experience:
Persistent fatigue
Unexplained numbness or tingling
Memory problems
Mood swings
It’s best to get tested. Early detection can prevent complications like nerve damage or anaemia.
How Apollo 24|7 Can Help?
If you suspect a Vitamin B12 deficiency, Apollo 24|7 makes it easy to:
Book a blood test from home
Consult a doctor online for advice
Order supplements if needed
Don’t ignore the signs—your health matters!
Conclusion
Vitamin B12 is a small nutrient with a big impact. Keeping your levels in check ensures better energy, brain function, and overall well-being. If you’re at risk or experiencing symptoms, a simple test can make all the difference.
Consult Top Physicians
Consult Top Specialists for Personalised Tips
Dr. Mohamed Azeem
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
2 Years • MBBS,MD(Internal Medicine) CCEBDM
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Apollo Hospitals Karaikudi, Karaikudi
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PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru
Dr Syed Mateen Pasha
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PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru
Dr. Syed Ismail Ali
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7 Years • MBBS
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Dr. Sandhya Chandel
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
16 Years • MBBS, MD (Int. Med.), IDCCM
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Apollo Hospitals Seepat Road, Bilaspur
(100+ Patients)
Consult Top Physicians
Dr. Mohamed Azeem
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
2 Years • MBBS,MD(Internal Medicine) CCEBDM
Karaikudi
Apollo Hospitals Karaikudi, Karaikudi
Dr. Anand Ravi
General Physician
2 Years • MBBS
Bengaluru
PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru
Dr Syed Mateen Pasha
General Physician
2 Years • MBBS
Bengaluru
PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru
Dr. Syed Ismail Ali
General Practitioner
7 Years • MBBS
Hyderabad
Apollo 24|7 Clinic, Hyderabad
Dr. Sandhya Chandel
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
16 Years • MBBS, MD (Int. Med.), IDCCM
Bilaspur
Apollo Hospitals Seepat Road, Bilaspur
(100+ Patients)
