What is vitamin B12?

Vitamin B12 is one of the essential micronutrient required for healthy functioning of human body. It is also known as cobalmin. It is required for various bodily functions such as it supports formation of RBC and DNA. Its deficiency could leads to diarrhea, loss of appetite, bloating, fatigue, memory issues and many more. In this article, we will understand the role of Vitamin B12 in human body, its sources, benefits, deficiency symptoms and treatment.  

How much vitamin B12 should you get?

How much vitamin B12 one need daily depend no different factors including age, medical conditions, eating habits, and medication, etc. The daily Vitamin B12 requirement of different age groups is- 0.4 micrograms for 0-6 months, 0.5 micrograms for 7-12 months, 0.9 micrograms for 1-3 years old, 1.2 micrograms for 4-8 years, 1.8 micrograms for 9-13 years and 2.4 micrograms for 14 years and older. These recommendations are based on research; however it is necessary to consult a doctor before taking any supplement to avoid possible side-effects.

What are vitamin B12 benefits?

Being one of the important micronutrient, Vitamin B12 holds an important place diet and brings a number of health benefits. Some of the vitamin B12 benefits are as follows:

1.    Proper functioning of the brain and the nervous system

Vitamin B12 deficiency is also associated with memory loss. Many researchers have found that supplementing with Vitamin B12 improves your memory. This vitamin plays a vital role in preventing brain atrophy, especially in older adults. Thus, it helps with proper functioning of brain and the nervous system.

2.    Prevents Anemia and supports red blood cells production  

Vitamin B12 is essential for production of red blood cells in human body. Low vitamin b12 reduces red blood cells in the body and diminishes body’s efficiency to produce RBCs efficiently. For example, healthy RBCs are small and round. At the same time, due to Vitamin B12 deficiency, they become irregular and larger in shape; it affects their ability to move from bone marrow into the bloodstream. Therefore, due to lack of sufficient number of RBCs in the bloodstream, one could become anemic.

3.    Can prevent significant congenital disabilities

Another vitamin b12 benefit is that it is significant for a healthy pregnancy. If there is a deficiency of vitamin b12, it may increase risk of miscarriages or neural tube defects.

4.    Supports healthy skin, nails, and hair

Vitamin B12 plays an essential role in cell production, so it is also required to promote healthy skin, hair, and nails. Having vitamins in low quantity can cause various dermatologic symptoms like hyperpigmentation, nail discoloration, vitiligo, and angular stomatitis. Doctor may recommend vitamin B12 supplement to overcome the deficiency.  

5.    It gives you an energy boost

Some researches have also proven vitamin B12 supplementation resulting in surge of energy. Vitamin B12 plays a crucial role in your body's energy production. Though it does not provide power itself, they aid in it. One of the earliest signs of Vitamin B12 deficiency is a lack of energy or fatigue.

Vitamin B12 deficiency

Most of us do not get the required amount of nutrients, and if you are unsure, you can get a blood test done to check your Vitamin B12 level. It is he only way to ensure vitamin B12 deficiency. Age could be a contributory factor to the deficiency as it becomes harder to adsorbed vitamins with advancing age.
You can have Vitamin B12 deficiency if you have-
•    Immune system disorders like lupus or graves disease.
•    You are on medications that can interfere with the absorption of vitamin B12.
•    You have atrophic gastritis, and your stomach lining has thinned.
•    Have pernicious anaemia making it hard to absorb Vitamin B12 in your body.
You can also have Vitamin B12 deficiency if you follow a vegan diet or you are a vegetarian and do not eat enough dairy products or eggs.

Symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency

Vitamin B12 deficiency could lead to anemia as well as a wide range of symptoms including:
•    Tiredness, weakness, or lightheadedness
•    Pale skin
•    Loss of vision.
•    Shortness of breath
•    Mental health issues like memory loss and even depression.
•    Problems in nerves like numbness, weakness of muscles, tingling sensation and difficulties in walking.
•    Constipation, loss of appetite, diarrhea, or gas.

Treatment of vitamin B12 deficiency

It includes vitamin B12 shots, supplementation and food recommendations. People with pernicious anemia or problem with vitamin B12 absorption are generally given high dose shots and oral supplements. Since animal products are a rich source of vitamin B12, doctor recommends inclusion of same in daily diet. At times, it becomes difficult for vegan to get required amount of the vitamin daily, so in that case, supplements are prescribed.

Conclusion

Vitamin B12 is one of the essential micronutrient required for healthy functioning of human body. It is also known as cobalmin. Its deficiency could leads to diarrhea, loss of appetite, bloating, fatigue, memory issues and many more. An adult needs 2.4 micrograms of vitamin B12 daily.  Being one of the important micronutrient, Vitamin B12 holds an important place diet and brings a number of health benefits like proper brain functioning, RBC production, etc. I hope you found the article helpful.  

Note: The article is meant for general awareness of the readers. The information can’t be used as a substitute to a medical prescription or diagnosis by a medical professional. In case you experience above or related symptoms, kindly consult a registered medical professional.

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