B12 and weird tongue

[Mistymountain]

This morning after eating some pineapple my tongue felt strange and prickly, when I looked at it (thinking I was maybe having an allergic reaction) I was shocked to see it was completely smooth and red. I've been battling restrictive eating for 3 years, I weigh 8 stone ,at 5foot 7, and have been down to 7 stone 7. It looks like this might be B12 deficiency. Does anyone think just taking high dose tablets will be enough, or should I see the doctor? I really don't want to go, it's so embarrassing at my age.

Funny patches on my tongue (white patches on redder than normal tongue) was what drove me to the doctor and resulted in a diagnosis of Pernicious Anaemia. You need to see the doctor as the cause of the B12 deficiency may affect your body’s ability to absorb B12 from tablets. I have to have injections.

Pineapples contain the enzyme bromelain, and “pineapple tongue” is a well known reaction. The enzyme breaks down the proteins in the mucosal layers of the mouth, which is probably what has happened to you. So unlikely to be anything to do with B12 deficiency.

If you've been restricting food for a long time it's entirely possible you have b12 deficiency as well as other deficiencies, its never too late to get help.

Talk to your GP.