What is Vitamin B12?
This is one of those vitamins you don’t hear a lot about, but it is vital to your health nonetheless. So what is vitamin B12 good for? Well, here’s the answer…
Where Does B12 Come From?
The scientists call it cyanocobalamin, but what is it exactly? It’s a substance that is found in animal-based foods. Examples include liver, eggs, clams, fish, and meats. However it’s not that the animal’s themselves make the substance, but rather natural bacteria in their body produces it. It is part of the B complex family. Therefore it is especially important for vegetarians to use vitamin B12 supplement. Most people get a sufficient supply from their dietary intake and since the liver can store a pretty large amount of it, deficiency from diet is rare. However, there are other causes.
What Is The Function of Vitamin B12?
Did you know that every single cell in your body utilizes B12 in their metabolic process? Therefore, it’s a part of your body’s energy production. It is a key part of blood synthesis, which is why people with anemia often need injections of it. Because it is an essential part of your DNA, you can see why it’s so important for healthy blood; including red & white cells as well the platelets. These cells need vitamin B12 in order to reproduce properly.
It has also been associated with a number of nervous system functions. Numerous places in the digestive system need it to work properly. Having proper levels are extra important for pregnant and lactating mothers. The most common symptoms of a vitamin B12 deficiency include lack of energy, excess sleepiness, frequent infections, and a sore (yet smooth) tongue.
Because the vast majority of diets include plenty of this substance in the form of meats and dairy, deficiency from not getting enough is rare. However deficiency frequently occurs due to another reason; your body’s inability to properly metabolize it through your food. As you age and the years get up there, this is increasing likely. Or if you had had surgery of the gastric tract (including bypass) then your body may not be able absorb enough naturally, even if you are getting an ample amount from your food.
Vitamin B12 Deficiency Diagnosis
If you suspect you may have a deficiency, you need to consult a physician because only they can find out whether you have a deficiency. If you are a healthy, younger individual, you probably are getting the recommended daily dosage. That being said, some people believe that having more than that may help to boost your energy levels.
The other reason you need to consult a physician is because there are all sorts of other circumstances which may cause similar symptoms. Also I should point out that information on this site should not be used for diagnosis or treatment, because I’m not a physician nor have any formal training in this area. Rather, I am just someone that found out I wasn’t getting enough naturally due to my vegetarian diet… then I found the answer to my question of what is vitamin B12 used for, and since then, I have been taking vitamins for it.
Vitamin B12 Supplement Treatment
Thanks to modern medicine, there are many different ways people ways can augment their natural intake. Vitamin B12 shots are one way and they are commonly administered. Others like the idea of orally consuming a liquid vitamin B12. Then of course there are many health supplements which contain an abundant amount, but some are better than ever so make sure you do your research.
