Cobalamin aka Vitamin B12

Vitamin B 12 may play a role in the prevention of Alzheimer’s disease and cardiovascular disease.

Vitamin B 12 is necessary for many functions.

·         Metabolism of energy-yielding nutrients

·         Works with folate to produce hemoglobin

·         Needed to create fatty acids and DNA

·         Works as a co-enzyme in creating new cells

·         Protects nerve fibers

·         Helps to build bone tissue

·         Aids in the formation of red blood cells and is needed to make all blood cells

Nutrients react and interact with each other more than you may know. 

·         Calcium is necessary for normal absorption of Vitamin B 12

·         Deficiency of iron or B6 decreases the absorption of B 12

·         A high intake of folic acid can mask B 12 anemia

·         Vitamin E deficiency might impair conversion of B 12 to its active form

·         Efficiency of absorption decreases with age

·         Some B 12 is stored in the liver, kidney and other tissues so signs of deficiency may not develop for up to 5-6 years after complete elimination from the diet

·         B 12 is recycled from bile and other intestinal secretions

The best dietary sources are animal products.  Other sources include fermented foods such as tofu, tempeh, miso, tamari and shoyu, but it depends on the source and the bacteria, fungi or algae used to produce them.  For vegetarians, fortified breakfast cereals and grains offer a good source of vitamin B 12. Some nutritional yeasts also contain B 12.  Those with vitamin B 12 deficiency may need to take a dietary supplement, prescription or injection.  It is important to have your vitamin B 12 levels checked so you can be sure to give your body the amount it needs to prevent cardiovascular disease and Alzheimer’s.  Vitamin B 12 is known to have potential interactions with certain medications so if you are interested in supplementation, be sure to speak with your doctor first. 

Many people believe Vitamin B 12 is necessary for energy enhancement and athletic performance.  The truth is Vitamin B 12 can help with fatigue and weakness when a deficiency is present but otherwise the additional supplementation isn’t necessary and has not been shown to have to beneficial effect on performance.