Benefits of Vitamin B12 for Health
Benefits of Vitamin B12 for Health - Vitamin B12 is also known as cobalamin. These are
water-soluble vitamins that are very important for the functioning of the
brain, nervous system and blood formation. This is one of eight B vitamins
found in the body.
This is also needed to make DNA which is a genetic
material found in all cells and also needed for energy production.
Vitamin B12 is abundant in animal foods such as fish,
milk eggs, poultry and meat. Breakfast that contains a lot of vitamin B12 is a
good source of energy, especially for vegetarians. Vegetarians have been known
to have a vitamin B12 deficiency that does not get it from sources other than
animals.
Symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency in vegetarians may
take years to develop because it takes a while for vitamin B12 levels to thin
out. These people should consider taking vitamin B12 supplements.
Most people get enough vitamin B12 in their diet, a
shortage is likely to occur as a result of the body's ability to absorb it from
food. Most of these people have an underlying stomach or intestinal disorder
that prevents absorption of vitamin B12.
Common symptoms associated with vitamin B12
deficiency include fatigue, nausea, weakness, weight loss, loss of appetite,
flatulence or gas and constipation. Neurological problems can also occur such
as numbness or tingling in the hands and feet.
Loss of balance, confusion or memory loss can also
occur. It is important to see a health care professional if you experience
these symptoms.
Pernicious anemia is a condition that can develop in
the absence of vitamin B12. This occurs when there is a decrease in the number
of intrinsic factors in the stomach.
Vitamin B12 binds with intrinsic factors to help be
absorbed properly by the body. Vitamin B12 injections are often recommended for
these people.
Other people with stomach and intestinal problems may
not absorb enough vitamin B12 from food to get the amount needed by the body.
Examples of this disease are thrush and celiac disease caused by intolerance to
proteins in wheat products.
Inflammation in the stomach from these diseases can
result in vitamin B12 malabsorption. Bacterial buildup in the stomach and
intestines can also reduce absorption of vitamin B12.
Many adults over the age of 50 have conditions that
prevent them from absorbing Vitamin B12 properly. This may include the growth
of bacteria in the stomach or inflammation of the stomach.
This condition limits the secretion of stomach acid
needed to separate vitamin B12 from protein so that it can be absorbed
properly. Adults aged 50 years and over are often advised to take vitamin B12
supplements or eat fortified foods.
