Do you feel a bit lack-luster, low on energy and just blasé most of the time? There can be many reasons for this, but one probable factor is a vitamin B deficiency. It’s known as the “energy vitamin”, and without it, daily life can be a real struggle. Here are five vitamin b deficiency symptoms that you should know.

The National Institute of Health claims that close to 15 percent of American adults live with a vitamin B deficiency. And while it’s never a good idea to be deficient in any vitamin or mineral, it’s especially harmful to run out of vitamin B.

Vitamin B, particularly B12, is necessary for just about every bodily function. Nerve function, adequate levels of red blood cells, DNA production and so many other important functions all require vitamin B12.

So, when your body doesn’t have it, your body will suffer. Michael Roizen, M.D., chief wellness officer at Cleveland’s Clinic Wellness Institute, shares these five signs of a vitamin B12 deficiency:

Tiredness and fatigue

Vitamin B12 supports red blood cell production. Without enough red blood cells, you can feel weak and tired.

Tingling in the hands and feet

Vitamin B12 protects and insulates nerves running from your spinal chord to the extremities. Low B12 can result in a tingling sensation in your hands and feet.

Poor balance

Just as your extremities are affected by a vitamin B12 deficiency, so too, is your sense of balance. So, if you feel a bit wobbly, a blood test might be a good idea.

Confusion

Nerve cells in your brain require a protective coating, and without vitamin B12, this coating deteriorates, leading to forgetfulness and confusion.

Depression

Not enough B12 can also lead to depression in some individuals. Therefore, if you can’t identify any other reason for depression, consider looking into your vitamin levels.