A post on X has gone viral, drawing attention to one of India’s most common but often overlooked health issues, the increasing deficiency of Vitamin D and Vitamin B12 amongst Indian populations. The post on X read: “India desperately needs another polio-like drive but for adults with Vitamin D + B12 deficiency.” The message has resonated widely, as studies suggest that a majority of Indians, across age groups and lifestyles, are affected.
According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), nearly 490 million Indians are Vitamin D deficient. In fact, multiple studies published in the Indian Journal of Endocrinology and Metabolism report that 80–90 per cent of Indians have insufficient Vitamin D levels.
India desperately needs another polio-like drive but for adults with Vitamin D+B12 deficiency.
— Aman Rai (@A_rai22) July 29, 2025
Vitamin B12 deficiency is no less alarming. A review in the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) reveals that 47 per cent of North Indians and up to 75 per cent of vegetarians across India have low B12 levels. What’s even more concerning is that a majority of people remain unaware until complications set in.
Why are vitamin d and vitamin b12 deficiencies so common in Indians?
“Vitamin D and B12 deficiencies are alarmingly prevalent in India, impacting a large proportion of adults,” says Dr. Rakesh Gupta, Senior Consultant, Internal Medicine, Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals.
Despite abundant sunlight, most Indians don’t receive adequate Vitamin D. “Urbanised, indoor-centric lifestyles, cultural clothing that covers most of the skin, and sunscreen use all limit natural Vitamin D synthesis,” explains Dr. Gupta. He adds that food fortification is uncommon, and dairy products in India are rarely fortified, unlike in many Western countries.
As for Vitamin B12, vegetarianism plays a major role. “Since B12 is found mainly in animal-based foods, India’s large vegetarian population is especially vulnerable. Malabsorption due to conditions like celiac disease or gastrointestinal infections also contributes to the problem,” says Dr. Gupta.
Symptoms of vitamin d and b12 deficiency you shouldn’t ignore
Deficiencies often remain unnoticed for years. According to the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), symptoms may include:
- Vitamin D deficiency: Fatigue, bone pain, muscle weakness, frequent illnesses, and risk of fractures.
- Vitamin B12 deficiency: Fatigue, mood swings, numbness in hands and feet, memory problems, and, in severe cases, neurological damage.
“These are silent symptoms most people dismiss as stress or ageing, but they are warning signs the body is not getting enough nutrients,” warns Dr. Gupta.
Long-term risks if vitamin deficiencies are left untreated
The consequences of neglect can be serious. “Vitamin D deficiency increases the risk of osteoporosis, fractures, weakened immunity, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and even certain cancers,” says Dr. Gupta.
“Untreated B12 deficiency can lead to megaloblastic anaemia, cognitive decline, paralysis, and cardiovascular problems,” he adds. “In women, deficiencies are also linked to pregnancy complications and developmental delays in infants.”
How to prevent and manage vitamin deficiencies
Health experts recommend:
- Regular Testing: Simple blood tests for Vitamin D [25(OH)D] and B12 levels.
- Sunlight Exposure: WHO advises 15–20 minutes of morning sunlight daily.
- Balanced Diet: Include dairy, mushrooms, eggs, fish, fortified cereals, and legumes. Vegetarians should consider fortified foods or B12 supplements.
- Medical Supervision: Supplements and injections, if required, should always be taken under medical guidance.
- Lifestyle Support: Adequate sleep, stress management, hydration, and regular exercise aid absorption and overall health.
Why India needs a nationwide drive
Experts believe it’s time for a large-scale public health campaign. “Early detection and awareness can prevent immense suffering. Just as India eradicated polio through a mass movement, we need a similar drive against Vitamin D and B12 deficiencies,” explains Dr. Gupta.
