Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin) is an important nutrient that helps our body keep nerve cells and red blood cells healthy and synthesize DNA. As with other vitamins, our body does not make vitamin B12 on its own, but depends on external sources. Read on to learn more about the benefits of vitamin B12.
Vitamin B12 Functions In Our Body
Vitamin B12 belongs to a group of vitamins called the B-complex. Of all the known vitamins, vitamin B12 is the largest and has the most complex structure. Although, like other B vitamins, vitamin B12 is water-soluble and gets eliminated from the body with urine, it is the only B vitamin that is primarily stored in the liver.
The essential functions of vitamin B12 in the body include:
- Regulates DNA synthesis
- Maintains the health of nerve cells and nervous system function
- Promotes energy production
- Facilitates the maturation of red blood cells
- Supports cognitive function
Vitamin B12 Deficiency
Vitamin B12 deficiency occurs when our body lacks enough vitamin B12 to support healthy bodily functions. It can be caused by a dietary lack, malabsorption, certain medications, or reduced stomach acid production.
Symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency include:
- Fatigue and weakness – constant lack of energy
- Neurological issues – numbness, tingling and pins and needles in hands and feet, peripheral neuropathy
- Cognitive issues – memory loss, confusion, difficulty focusing
- Mood shifts
- Balance difficulties
- Pale or yellow skin
- Mouth or tongue ulcers
- Degeneration of the spinal cord
- Bowel and/or urinary incontinence
- Erectile dysfunction
- Depression
- Heart disease
- Shortness of breath
- Dizziness
- Eye disease
- Weight loss
- Loss of appetite
Benefits of Vitamin B12
Maintaining optimal levels of vitamin B12 in our body is essential for providing many health benefits, such as supporting healthy nerve and red blood cells and DNA synthesis.
Some of the health benefits of vitamin B12 include:
- Promotes cognitive health
- Prevents dementia
- Prevents Depression
- Promotes heart health
- Promotes eye health
- May support better mood
- Supports skin health
- Prevents mouth and tongue ulcers
- Supports hair health
- Helps reduce the risk of osteoporosis
- Prevents digestive problems
- Reduces the risk of balance problems
Vitamin B12-rich foods
Foods rich in vitamin B12 include organ meats, beef, sardines, shellfish, tuna, trout, salmon, milk, dairy products, non-dairy milk, eggs, fortified nutritional yeast and fortified cereals.
Note:
If you decide to take Vitamin B12 supplements, consult your health professional before use.
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➥ DISCLAIMER: This post is not intended to replace medical treatment. The information provided is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.