White dots on the skin are one of the signs of a vitamin B12 deficiency in the body, and can be reversed by taking vitamin B12 supplements. Vitamin B12 deficiency is extremely rare because the liver tends to store sufficient amounts of this vitamin and any loses in the bile secretion is recycled in the intestines. However, inadequate amounts in the diet over the years will deplete these reserves and recharging the amount of the vitamin in the liver takes time. This is primarily because of the complexity of the vitamin; its absorption is one of the more problematic concerns.
Vitamin B 12 is one of the most crucial vitamins in the body and one of the most difficult for the body to acquire and metabolize. This vitamin is at the cellular level for every cell and used in the synthesis of DNA. It is also required to synthesize fatty acids and create energy. The synthesis of DNA is extremely important in cell regeneration and creation. This is extremely important in cells that have a quick turnover like red blood cells. When these are not produced, a situation that is typical to the deficiency of vitamin B12 called pernicious anemia arises. Since the vitamin is also used in the manufacture of certain neurotransmitters, its deficiency also causes diminished brain function and behavioral changes, which include mood swings and depression. It is this function of DNA creation that is causing the white spots on your legs, which are increasing. The white spots are caused due to a lack of melanin in the area. Melanin is created by the melanocyte cells and these are cells that have to be replaced like any other cells. When this process does not happen due to the lack of Vitamin B12, the white spots occur.
The best sources of vitamin B12 are from animal sources, for example meat, eggs, and dairy. This is especially a problem for most vegetarians with lactose intolerance or those who prefer not to consume dairy products. For these reasons, it is advisable to take vitamin B12 as a vitamin supplement. This is because most of the plant sources of the vitamin are in such a form that they cannot be absorbed by the human body and require bacteria to further process it. Taking vitamin B12 supplements requires that it be done continuously for a long period of time so that the levels of the vitamin in the liver are filled up. Once filled, these reserves can usually last for a very long period of time.