Our tongues are not merely one of the most robust muscles in our body. They also have a significant impact on our digestion process by assisting us in chewing, tasting, and swallowing.
It's relatively easy to recognize when your tongue isn't functioning properly - such as when it suddenly becomes cracked and painful.
According to Samuel Mathis, MD, a board-certified family medicine physician and assistant professor at the Department of Family Medicine at UTMB, a fractured or split tongue might indicate a mineral or vitamin deficiency
Dr. Mathis explains that lingua plicata is the medical term for cracked tongue which affects roughly 5 percent of US residents. He suggests that typical vitamin or nutrient deficiencies leading to cracked tongue include low amounts of iron, zinc, biotin, or vitamin B12 deficiency; all essential for forming papillae or groves on the surface of the tongue.
Discover more about these deficiencies below, including ways to avoid suffering from a cracked tongue and circumstances where you should consult with your doctor.
Tip
Certain deficiencies in specific nutrients, such as iron and vitamin B12, might result in a condition known as atrophic glossitis. This health issue gives your tongue a glossy and smooth look. However, should the condition irritate the tongue, cracks may develop.
Vitamin B12 Deficiency
Vitamin B12 deficiency is quite prevalent, states Dr. Mathis. "Due to substandard dietary habits, many individuals lack sufficient amounts of vitamin Bs. Primarily derived from plant-based diets," he remarks.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, indications of a shortage in vitamin B12 include tongue soreness and mouth corner cracks. Additional physical symptoms comprise:
- Persistent fatigue
- Nausea or diarrhea
- Decreased desire for food
- Weight reduction
- A yellowish skin tone
Those who are highly susceptible to this type of deficiency are people above 65 years old, vegans, pregnant women and individuals on specific medication.
Fortunately, making changes to your diet or supplementing can remedy a deficiency in Vitamin B12 easily. Foods naturally rich in vitamin B12 as recommended by the Cleveland clinic include:
- Salmon
- Eggs
- Tuna fish
- Chicken breast
- Milk products
In situations where your doctor realizes through lab tests that you still have deficient levels of Vitamin B12 despite all efforts made, consider including an everyday supplement dose like that by Mason Natural (always get advice from your health professional before beginning any supplements).
Impact on Your Body from Daily Multivitamin Intake
Iron
Iron stands as another mineral that many individuals lack significantly. Insufficiency in iron can lead to a condition referred to as anemia, predominantly prevalent among people experiencing chronic blood loss, according to Dr. Mathis.
He adds that numerous conditions could trigger slow, and at times unnoticeable bleeding, including gastric ulcers and even some rare forms of cancer.
According to Mayo Clinic, an inflammation or soreness in your tongue serves as one indication of anemia. This occurs because when you have anemia, your body does not generate adequate healthy red blood cells causing a jagged tongue and mouth sores.
Penn Medicine identifies other symptoms of Anema such brittle nails, light-headedness and short breaths.
"If indications of anemia are apparent," says Dr.Mathis "an effective iron supplement is quite beneficial". He cautions however about drinking lots of water given the propensity for many iron supplements leading to constipation.
Zinc
Zinc is seen as a trace mineral, implying that our bodies require it only in minimal quantities, states the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health.
In spite of its limited requirement, zinc plays an essential role in our bodies due to its facilitation of cell growth, strengthening the immune system and enhancing our taste and smell senses.
Mirroring vitamin B12, nature has provided us with zinc-rich sources through nutrient-packed foods. However, should your diet be inadequately balanced you may not intake a sufficient amount says Dr Mathis.
He emphasizes on the significance of consuming at least five servings composed of vegetables and fruits daily.
According to Harvard T.H Chan School Of Public Health some examples of zinc - rich food include:
- Whole grains
- Shellfish
- Beef
- Poultry
- Pork
- Legumes
- Nuts and seeds
Nonetheless if one's dietary restrictions inhibit them from acquiring satisfactory amounts from their meals or there's inadequate absorption then supplementing it could serve as a solution. Examples recommended by Dr Mathis for this circumstance are like Thorne's Zinc Picolinate used under medical advice
Biotin
Biotin is well-known for its significant role in promoting healthy skin, hair and nails. It's unusual to experience a deficiency in biotin, however symptoms like cracked mouth corners or swollen tongue may indicate such. This information comes from Mount Sinai.
Further symptoms included by Mount Sinai include:
- Dry eyes
- Decreased appetite
- Exhaustion
- Difficulty sleeping
- Depression
The individuals who are more likely to be deficient in biotin are those suffering from malnutrition, taking seizure medication or antibiotics for extended periods, and conditions like Crohn's disease restricting nutrient absorption according to Mount Sinai.
There are many ways that the body can restore biotin levels including through diet and supplements. Foods rich in biotin as outlined by the National Institutes of Health include:
- Egg yolks
- Salmon
- Pork
- Beef
- Sweet potato
- Almonds
- Tuna
- Spinach
With medical approval, supplementation options such as Life Extension's biotin capsules can also be considered.
Alternative Reasons For a Cracked Tongue
Our understanding of why a tongue might be cracked is still evolving, therefore it isn't certain that the only cause is a lack of vitamins as noted by Dr. Mathis. Other potential factors like chronic health conditions or personal lifestyle decisions could also play significant roles, which includes:
- Hereditary influences
- Immune-mediated diseases such as psoriasis and Sjögren's syndrome
- Endocrine or neurological concerns
Strategies to Avoid a Fractured Tongue
A healthy, balanced diet enriched with nutrients and maintaining proper oral cleanliness is key in preventing the divisions in your tongue says, Dr. Mathis.
"People having splitting tongue might not exhibit any signs or symptoms from it. These issues are usually resolved by modifying your food intake habits or integrating some recommended nutritional supplements into your daily routine," he further explains.
Dr. Mathis also advises on keeping up a thorough dental care regimen - for instance, removing any residues of meals stuck on one's tongues straight after eating. Accumulation of such may result in severe conditions like yeast infections inside the mouth or sores on the surface of the tongue itself.
Actually cleaning your own tongue can be accomplished either via gentle brushing or utilizing something known as a 'tongue scraper' designed specifically for scientifically proven ways of deep-cleaning oral surfaces - enlightens Doctor Mathis. "Rinsing our mouths thoroughly with warm salt water can be quite beneficial too."
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When Should You Consult a Physician?
Should your symptoms persist beyond several weeks, it is advisable to get your tongue examined to rule out any serious causes for these symptoms, according to Dr. Mathis.
Further, he mentions that the occurrence of any white secretion appearing on the tongue could signal a fungal infection which would necessitate additional treatment with medication.
Be aware as well of bacterial infections signs on the tongue that entail a painful, red and swollen appearance along with scalloped indentations in or around its grooves/fissures - this too will demand medical intervention.
Finally, remember to consistently visit your dentist as part maintaining good oral hygiene practices.
