28 April 2016

Vitamin B12

Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, contributes to our body’s natural energy production and other related biological processes.

For example, B12 plays an important role in the formation of DNA. It is crucial to the processes that create healthy blood cells and keep our nervous system working properly.

Along with its role in red blood cell production, vitamin B12 also helps keep our overall cardiovascular system in check. Thus even a small B12 deficiency can have serious consequences for our health.

Running low on this important B complex nutrient can lead to general fatigue, and long-term deficiencies can lead to even worse health concerns.

According to VeganHealth.org, “Unlike animals, most, if not all, plants have no B12 requirement for any function, and therefore have no active mechanisms to produce or store B12. When B12 is found in them it can be due to contamination which is not reliable.”

And so B12 comes almost exclusively from fish and animal food sources (Sardines, Salmon,Tuna, Cod, Lamb, Scallops, Shrimp, Beef, Turkey, Chicken), cheese and eggs.

Vegetarians and vegans who eat no animal products, along with the elderly who absorb less vitamin B12 are the two most at-risk populations.

Because of its large chemical structure, vitamin B12 is not as easily absorbed as other vitamins. But it can be stored in our body up to a year.

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