Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is an essential nutrient that offers several health benefits:

Key Benefits of Vitamin B12

1. Red Blood Cell Formation: Vitamin B12 plays a crucial role in the production of red blood cells, helping to prevent anemia.

2. Nerve Health: It supports the health of nerve cells and can help prevent nerve damage.

3. DNA Synthesis: Vitamin B12 is necessary for DNA synthesis, which is essential for cell growth and repair.

4. Energy Levels: It helps convert food into energy, reducing fatigue and boosting energy levels.

5. Brain Health: Adequate levels of vitamin B12 are important for cognitive function and may help prevent memory loss and dementia.

6. Mood Regulation: Vitamin B12 is involved in the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that regulates mood, which can help prevent depression.

7. Bone Health: It may support bone health and reduce the risk of osteoporosis.

8. Eye Health: Vitamin B12 may help prevent age-related macular degeneration, an eye disease that can cause blindness.

Sources of Vitamin B12

Vitamin B12 is naturally found in animal products such as meat, fish, poultry, eggs, and dairy. It can also be obtained from fortified foods like breakfast cereals and nutritional yeast, or through supplements.

Deficiency Symptoms

• Red or sore tongue
• Tingling or numbness in feet
• Nervousness
• Heart palpitations
• Depression
• Memory problems