VITAMIN B12

Vita
Sep 15, 2022
2 min read

It is only found naturally in dirt and in animal products. Animals don’t make B12, they get it from the dirt they drink. Soil bacteria in the guts of animals make B12, not animals.

With modern growing and washing practices, dirt is no longer a viable source of B12 because the chemicals kill all bacteria.

Vitamin B12 prevents nerve damage, protects the heart and supports overall energy level and immune system. The deficiency of B12 for many years results in anaemia and neurological issues.

For people eating a plant-based diet and vegetarians, the risk of deficiency is very high so supplementing it is essential. Even the people who eat meat tend to be deficient in vitamin B12. Studies show that between 20-40% of people worldwide have a B12 deficiency.

Our ability to absorb B12 decreases as we get older, so everyone should be concerned about their B12 intake. (1)

Vitamin B12 plays an important role in our body. (2)

1. Helps with the normal function of nerve cells.

2. Helps with red blood cell formation.

When levels of vitamin B12 are too low, the production of red blood cells is altered, which causes megaloblastic anaemia - reduces the ability to transport oxygen in the blood.

3. Potreben pri sintezi DNK.

4. May prevent birth defects.

Adequate amounts of vitamin B12 for pregnant women are key to a healthy pregnancy (pregnant women have to consume higher amounts of it). Vitamin B12 is important for the prevention of brain and spinal cord birth defects. (3)

5. Supports bone health and may prevent osteoporosis.

Research (4) with 2500 adults showed, that people who are deficient in vitamin B12, have also lower than normal bone mineral density. These kinds of bones tend to become fragile and delicate, leading to an increased risk of osteoporosis, especially in women (5, 6, 7).

6. Adequate levels of B12 may reduce the risk of Macular Degeneration. (an eye disease that affects central vision).

7. Improves mood.

B12 is important for serotonin production, a hormone, that positively affects our mood.

8. May prevent memory loss, especially in the later stages of life. Vitamin B12 plays an important role as it prevents the loss of neurons.

9. May give you an energy boost, especially if you have been deficient before taking the supplement.

10. Strengthens hair, skin and nails.

Given the important role of vitamin B12 in cell production, adequate levels of it are needed to promote healthy hair, eyes, and nails. Low levels of B12 can cause hyperpigmentation, nail discolouration, hair changes ... Researches show that after getting enough amounts of vitamin B12, the dermatological symptoms improved (5, 6).