Vitamin B12 is Important for a Healthy Body

Vitamin B12 is also known as cobalamin. It is a water soluble vitamin that is essential for proper functioning of the brain, nervous system and formation of blood. It is one of eight B vitamins that are found in the body. It is also needed to make DNA which is genetic material found in all cells and it is also needed for energy production.

Vitamin B12 is naturally located in animal foods. Breakfast cereals are usually fortified with vitamin B12 which is actually a good source. Vegetarians have been known to have vitamin B12 deficiency who are not getting it from an additional source apart from animals.

Symptoms with vitamin B12 deficiency in vegetarians may take years to develop because it takes a while for vitamin B12 levels to become depleted. These individuals should consider taking a vitamin B12 supplement. Most people get enough Vitamin B12 in their diet, deficiency is most likely to occur as a result of a decreased ability by the body to absorb it from food. Most of these people have an underlying stomach or intestinal disorder that is preventing the absorption of vitamin B12.

Typical symptoms related with vitamin B12 deficiency are fatigue, nausea, weakness, weight loss, loss of appetite, flatulence or gas and constipation. Nerve problems might also happen for example numbness or tingling in the hands and feet. Loss of balance, confusion or memory loss may perhaps also happen. You will need to see a physician or other health care expert should you be experiencing these symptoms.

Pernicious anemia is associated with the absence of vitamin B12 in the body. This occurs when there is a decreased amount of intrinsic factor within the stomach. Vitamin B12 binds with intrinsic factor to assist it in being absorbed by the body. Vitamin B12 injections are generally suggested for these people.

Other individuals with stomach and intestinal problems may not absorb enough vitamin B12 from food to get the amount needed by the body. Examples of these diseases are Sprue and celiac disease which are caused by an intolerance to protein in wheat products. Inflammation in the stomach from these diseases may result in malabsorption of vitamin B12. The build up of bacteria in the stomach and intestines can also decrease absorption of vitamin B12.

Adults over the age of 50 years often have conditions which prevent them from correctly absorbing Vitamin B12. This may possibly include bacterial growth inside the stomach or inflammation of the stomach as mentioned earlier. These conditions limit the secretions of stomach acid that are needed to separate vitamin B12 from protein to be effectively absorbed. Adults 50 years and older are recommended to take dietary supplements with Vitamin B12 or eating foods that have been fortified with it.

Dr. Leavitt has written many articles on nutrition and natural health. To learn more, visit here: knoxville chiropractic To learn more about the doctor and better comprehend chiropractic, go here: knoxville chiropractic

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