When your body lacks vitamin B12, it affects your nerve function and blood flow. This may lead to tingling, burning, or numbness in the hands and feet, or sometimes a feeling of “pins and needles” at night. You may also feel leg pain, restlessness, or muscle cramps that disturb your sleep. This happens because B12 deficiency damages the protective covering of nerves (myelin sheath), which slows down nerve signals — causing discomfort especially when you lie still at night.
If you’re experiencing these symptoms, it’s important to get your B12 levels checked. Along with medical advice, including these 7 foods in your diet can naturally help overcome the deficiency:
- Eggs – Eggs, especially the yolk, are loaded with vitamin B12 and protein. Eating one or two eggs a day supports brain and nerve function and boosts energy.
- Milk and Dairy Products – Regular consumption of milk, curd (yogurt), and cheese provides a steady dose of B12. These foods are especially useful for vegetarians.
- Fish – Fatty fish such as salmon, tuna, and sardines are rich in B12 and omega-3 fatty acids. They improve nerve health, blood circulation, and heart function.
- Chicken and Lean Meat – Chicken and lean cuts of meat are excellent non-vegetarian sources of vitamin B12. They help in red blood cell production and fight fatigue caused by deficiency.
- Fortified Cereals – Many breakfast cereals are fortified with vitamin B12. These are a great option for vegetarians and vegans who may not get enough B12 from natural sources.
- Paneer (Cottage Cheese) – A protein-packed dairy food that’s also rich in B12. Including paneer in your meals helps maintain healthy nerve function and energy levels.
- Soy Milk or Fortified Plant Milk – Vegans can go for soy milk, almond milk, or oat milk fortified with B12. These are easy to digest and can help prevent deficiency when consumed regularly.
Conclusion:
Vitamin B12 deficiency is often silent and shows symptoms like numbness, tingling, or leg pain at night. Ignoring these signs can lead to long-term nerve damage and fatigue. By adding B12-rich foods like eggs, dairy, fish, and fortified plant-based options to your daily diet, you can restore your vitamin levels naturally, improve your nerve health, and enjoy peaceful, uninterrupted sleep.


