What's the Big Deal About Vitamin B12?
Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is a member of a powerhouse group of vitamins called the B complex. It contains a metal known as cobalt, which plays an important role in keeping the body healthy. It's a water-soluble vitamin that is accumulated in body tissues such as the kidneys and liver. What's a bit strange about this vitamin is that even though the body only needs it in small amounts, deficiency is still common.
Vitamin B12 is found in foods like meat, certain fishes, eggs and cheese. However, fruits and vegetables don't have too much of it, so vegetarians should definitely consider taking supplements to make sure that they don't suffer from a deficiency. The good news for them is that cobalamin supplements are convenient, affordable, and above all, safe. And what's even better is the fact that there are no side effects that have been documented from exceeding the recommended daily allowance for the vitamin. In fact, the Institute of Medicine recommends that elderly individuals get their supply of cobalamin from supplements or fortified food because they are less able to efficiently absorb it from food sources.
The main functions of this nutrient are to assist in the formation of red blood cells and to keep the nervous system healthy. In addition, it is necessary for the production of DNA, the genetic component of all cells. You will know that you have a cobalamin deficiency if you experience one or more of the following symptoms: appetite loss, constipation, anemia, weakness, and fatigue. Effects on the nervous system of a deficiency are a tingling sensation in the hands and feet or numbness. In addition, you may also find it hard to maintain your balance and experience mental disorders like impaired memory, confusion, and depression. Lactating or breastfeeding women, as well as pregnant women, should make sure to get enough of this nutrient, which they can pass on to their infants through breast milk or via the placenta. Symptoms of deficiency in infants include anemia, developmental delays, and movement disorders.
It's not only vegans and pregnant/lactating women who stand to benefit from vitamin B12, although perhaps their requirements for it are greater. Every person from the very young to the very old should not underestimate the importance and necessity of this vitamin and other vitamins in human health.
