Vitamin B-12 is required for brain functions, red blood cell production, and healthy nerve tissues.
Vitamin B-12 is required for brain functions, red blood cell production, and healthy nerve tissues. Vitamin B-12 occurs naturally in animal products, including meat, dairy products, and eggs. Those who do not consume meat, like vegetarians and vegans, and those who have difficulty digesting proteins can take a vitamin B12 supplement.
American adults aged 60 or older are at an increased risk of developing a vitamin B12 deficiency. Vitamin B12 deficiencies can be caused by a diet that does not contain adequate levels of vitamin B12 or by the patient's inability to absorb vitamin B12 from the foods consumed fully.
The following can increase the risk of developing a vitamin B-12 deficiency:
Adults older than 60 are at an increased risk of vitamin B12 deficiencies. Their stomachs often contain reduced hydrochloric acid, which reduces their ability to absorb vitamin B12.
Gastrointestinal disorders, i.e., celiac disease and Crohn's disease, increase the risk of a deficiency.
Individuals who have undergone gastrointestinal surgeries, including bowel resection surgery or bariatric surgery
Individuals who follow a strict vegan diet may not absorb enough vitamin B12.
People with diabetes who take metformin for glucose regulation may experience B12 deficiencies.
Chronic heartburn sufferers who use proton pump inhibitors may be unable to absorb vitamin B-12.
The health benefits of vitamin B12
Prevents anemia – A vitamin B12 deficiency can result in the formation of red blood cells. Furthermore, when you suffer from a vitamin deficiency, your red blood cells become large and irregular, preventing the red blood cells from moving from your bone marrow to your bloodstream. Vitamin B-12 supplementation and vitamin B12-rich foods can help prevent and relieve anemia.
Prevents congenital disabilities—Pregnant women must ensure they are getting enough vitamin B-12 to help prevent congenital disabilities. Adequate levels of vitamin B12 are essential for a baby's nervous system and brain to develop correctly. Vitamin B12 deficiencies can increase the risk of miscarriage or premature birth. Vitamin B12 helps with fetal development and decreases the risk of miscarriage.
Heart health – The amino acid homocysteine increases a patient's risk of developing heart disease.
Those suffering from vitamin B12 deficiency often experience elevated homocysteine levels. Taking a vitamin B12 supplement can help decrease homocysteine levels and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Brain health—A vitamin B12 deficiency has been linked to memory loss. If the brain does not receive an ample amount of vitamin B12, it can atrophy, which has been linked to dementia and memory loss. Combining vitamin B12 supplements with omega-3 fatty acids can help slow mental decline and improve memory.
Bone health: Vitamin B12 supports the musculoskeletal system. A Vitamin B-12 deficiency can decrease bone mineral density, resulting in fragile bones. Over time, vitamin B12 deficiency can increase the risk of osteoporosis. Eating a diet filled with vitamin B12-rich foods and taking a B12 supplement can interfere with bone health and may help prevent osteoporosis.
Vision health: If you do not get the recommended amount of vitamin B12, you may experience blurred vision.
A deficiency can damage the optic nerve over time, impairing vision. Furthermore, low levels of vitamin B12 can increase the risk of developing macular degeneration. Protect your vision by ensuring you are getting ample amounts of vitamin B12.
Mood regulation – Vitamin B12 helps the body synthesize and metabolize serotonin, which regulates mood. If you are not getting enough serotonin, you can experience depression. Those suffering from a vitamin B12 deficiency are twice as likely to suffer from depression. Supplementing with vitamin B12 can improve the success of depression medications and help patients recover quicker.
Increased energy levels—People have been using vitamin B12 to increase their energy levels. Because vitamin B12 is water-soluble, it cannot be stored in the body. Any extra vitamin B12 will be eliminated in urine. Taking an oral supplement, nasal spray, or injection can help improve energy levels in patients experiencing low vitamin B12 levels.
The body cannot produce vitamin B12. It is only available in animal products and fortified foods. In addition, vitamin B12 oral supplements, injections, and nasal sprays can help increase your vitamin B12 levels to promote health and longevity.
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by Madhu Hirani in Wellness
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