How Vitamin B-12 Can Help You?

B12 Vitamin: What You Need to Know

What is B12 Vitamin and Why is it Important?

B12 vitamin, also known as cobalamin, is an essential nutrient that our bodies cannot produce on their own. We need to get it from food or dietary supplements. It is important for vegetarians, pregnant and breastfeeding mothers, and those at risk of B12 vitamin deficiency to ensure they get enough of this essential vitamin. Let’s find out more about B12!

Benefits and Importance of B12 Vitamin

B12 vitamin, also known as cobalamin, is a water-soluble vitamin that plays an important role in several vital functions of our body. It can be found in animal-based foods such as dairy products, eggs, fish, meat, and poultry, which naturally contain B12. There are also products available that are fortified with B12 vitamin.

Effects of B12 Vitamin

B12 vitamin contributes to:

• normal energy metabolism;
• cell division;
• normal functioning of the nervous system;
• normal homocysteine metabolism;
• maintenance of normal psychological function;
• normal red blood cell formation;
• normal immune system function; and
• reduction of tiredness and fatigue.

B12 Vitamin Deficiency

B12 vitamin is less easily absorbed as we age, but even those who follow a vegan diet, meaning they do not consume any animal-based foods, can experience B12 vitamin deficiency.

The likelihood of developing vitamin deficiency is higher in the following conditions:

• pernicious anemia, which makes it difficult for the body to absorb B12 vitamin;
• conditions affecting the small intestine, such as Crohn’s disease or celiac disease;
• excessive alcohol consumption, as alcohol can interfere with nutrient absorption; and
• immune system disorders, such as lupus.

Symptoms of B12 Vitamin Deficiency

According to a 2019 study*, symptoms of B12 vitamin deficiency may include:

• fatigue, weakness;
• nerve damage with numbness and tingling in the hands and feet;
• memory problems, confusion;
• dementia; and
• depression.

*Neurological symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency: analysis of pediatric patients (Heps en Mine Serin, Elif Acar Arslan)