Did you know that Vitamin B12 is very important for us? This is what I found out today in the net about the benefits and nutritional value of Vitamin B12 for our body.
Vitamin B12 is a water-soluble vitamin, but unlike other water-soluble nutrients, it is stored in the liver, kidney and other body tissues. It contains the mineral cobalt, and is therefore also known as cobalamin.
The human body stores several years' worth of vitamin B12, so nutritional deficiency of this vitamin is extremely rare. Although, people who follow a strict vegetarian diet and do not consume eggs or dairy products may require Vitamin B12 supplements. Vitamin B12 is not usually present in plant food sources, and it is likely that a vegetarian will not consume enough of this vitamin in their diet.
The elderly are at risk too. Elderly people should also watch themselves for possible deficiency symptoms as cobalamin levels decline with age. Deficiencies in the elderly are, however, usually caused by improper absorption of the vitamin, and not a dietary lack. As the symptoms of a deficiency of this vitamin may not show themselves for five to six years until the body's reserves are completely depleted, it makes sense to consider taking a supplement. If you are uncertain as to whether you are consuming enough, you can have your blood tested.
The elderly are at risk too. Elderly people should also watch themselves for possible deficiency symptoms as cobalamin levels decline with age. Deficiencies in the elderly are, however, usually caused by improper absorption of the vitamin, and not a dietary lack. As the symptoms of a deficiency of this vitamin may not show themselves for five to six years until the body's reserves are completely depleted, it makes sense to consider taking a supplement. If you are uncertain as to whether you are consuming enough, you can have your blood tested.
What are the benefits of Vitamin B12?
- Cobalamin works with folic acid in the formation of red blood cells and thereby prevent anemia.
- Vitamin B12 is important for metabolism. Metabolism within the body includes the processes of energy generation and use; including nutrition, digestion, absorption, elimination, respiration, circulation, and temperature regulation.
- B12 can be used in reducing homocysteine levels - high levels of this substance can point towards possible heart disease, so if you are a potential heart disease candidate, you can use a combination of vitamin B12, B6 and folic acid to help return your homocysteine levels to normal.
- This vitamin it is necessary in maintaining a healthy nervous system. A long-term deficiency, if left untreated, can cause irreversible neurological damage.
- It also helps improve memory and concentration and helps ensure restful sleep.
Required Dosage?
The body only requires a small amount of vitamin B12 - the recommended dosage is 2 to 3 mcg per day. Supplements with 50 to 2000 mcg of B12 are available, which can be used depending on severity of the shortage in the body. No toxicity has been reported, even on high dosages.
Deficiency of Vitamin B12
A deficiency of Vitamin B12 can cause serious harm if left untreated for long periods. A shortage can result in nerve damage, anemia, depression and fatigue. It is possible to prevent this damage if the low B12 level is diagnosed early, and supplementation is started before any permanent damage can occur.
Choosing the right supplement
Vitamin B12 works synergistically with other vitamins, like folic acid, vitamin A, C and E, which means that the potency of the vitamin is increased when taken with these other substances. Calcium is necessary for proper absorption of vitamin B12.
* Note : I made it a point to find out about Vitamin B12 today after watching Rachael Ray Show this morning. She was talking about it on the show and got herself a Vitamin B12 injection live on the show! The procedure was done by her guest who is a doctor by the name of Dr. Travis Stork. It seems that there are various ways to take this Vitamin other than by eating food that have Vitamin B12. You can also get it by taking supplements (pills), by injection and by using a Vitamin B12 patch as well. I hope this info will benefit all who read about it in my blog. :) Stay healthy guys!!
The body only requires a small amount of vitamin B12 - the recommended dosage is 2 to 3 mcg per day. Supplements with 50 to 2000 mcg of B12 are available, which can be used depending on severity of the shortage in the body. No toxicity has been reported, even on high dosages.
Deficiency of Vitamin B12
A deficiency of Vitamin B12 can cause serious harm if left untreated for long periods. A shortage can result in nerve damage, anemia, depression and fatigue. It is possible to prevent this damage if the low B12 level is diagnosed early, and supplementation is started before any permanent damage can occur.
Choosing the right supplement
Vitamin B12 works synergistically with other vitamins, like folic acid, vitamin A, C and E, which means that the potency of the vitamin is increased when taken with these other substances. Calcium is necessary for proper absorption of vitamin B12.
* Note : I made it a point to find out about Vitamin B12 today after watching Rachael Ray Show this morning. She was talking about it on the show and got herself a Vitamin B12 injection live on the show! The procedure was done by her guest who is a doctor by the name of Dr. Travis Stork. It seems that there are various ways to take this Vitamin other than by eating food that have Vitamin B12. You can also get it by taking supplements (pills), by injection and by using a Vitamin B12 patch as well. I hope this info will benefit all who read about it in my blog. :) Stay healthy guys!!
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