Vitamin B12 is a water-soluble B vitamin. B12 is also known as cobalamin because it contains cobalt. The form of B12 most commonly used in dietary supplements is called cyanocobalamin. B12 is only produced by bacteria, so it is only found in food products of animal origin and in some fermented vegetable products such as tempeh and miso (fermented soybeans). B12 works closely with Folic Acid to promote new cell formation and normal cell life and function. Necessary for proper digestion, protein synthesis, and carbohydrate metabolism. Vitamin B12 deficiencies have often been reported in the elderly, and those who have had gastric surgery. Recently, diminished B12 status has been identified as an additional risk factor for breast cancer among post-menoplausal women. In a large number of studies, supplementation with Vitamin B12 proved to inhibit certain types of auto-immune disorders. B12 has also been shown to improve symptoms of neurologic disorders in the elderly, leading to calls for an open clinical trial studying B12's effects on Alzheimer's disease.
Recommended Dietary Allowances: Men = 6 mcg; Women = 4 mcg; Pregnant Women = 2.2 mcg
For those individuals at highest risk for vitamin B12 deficiency, strict vegetarians and elderly with reduced B12 absorption, supplements are highly recommended. Most complete multivitamin supplements will contain vitamin B12 at RDA or higher levels. Higher intakes from specific B12 or B-complex products may be warranted for high risk individuals.
IMPORTANCE:- Helps in the formation & regeneration of red blood cells, thus helping prevent anemia
- necessary for carbohydrate, fat & protein metabolism
- maintains a healthy nervous system
- promotes growth in children
- increases energy
- needed for Calcium absorption
- Improves memory
- Promotes concentration
- Increases energy
- Reduces heart disease risk
DEFICIENCY SYMPTOMS:
- pernicious anemia
- poor appetite
- growth failure in children
- tiredness
- brain damage
- nervousness
- neuritis
- degeneration of spinal cord
- depression
- lack of balance
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Vitamins | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
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(Retinol) |
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(Vitamin A precursor) |
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Vitamine
B complex
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(Ascorbic Acid) |
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(Cholecalciferol) |
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Vitamin E | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
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(alpha-Tocopherol) |
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(Vitamin B-7) (Biotin) |
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(Menadione) |
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(Anthranilic Acid) |
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(Myo-Inositol) |
