VITAMIN B-12

Vitamin B12 is a water-soluble vitamin. Its role in the operations of our bodies is diverse — from maintaining the nervous system, red blood cells, and energy metabolism to the proper functioning of our brains, hearts, livers, and kidneys. It is, in fact, essential for optimal health, performance, and wellbeing.

It is required for normal cellular activity, working with folic acid to create building blocks for RNA and DNA synthesis and the synthesis of molecules that help maintain the proper functioning of the genome. This vitamin also helps the nervous system function properly and aids in energy production and in fatty acid biosynthesis. The body uses only small amounts of vitamin B12 to carry out these tasks.

Vitamin B12 works with vitamin B6 and folic acid to control homocysteine levels. Excess levels of homocysteine have been linked to increased risk of stroke, osteoporosis, heart disease, and Alzheimer’s disease.

Vitamin B12 occurs naturally in meats and other sources of animal proteins
(it is not found in plants), and serious deficiencies are rare in healthy individuals who consume a balanced diet. However, vegans, vegetarians, the elderly or those who have had any kind of gastric surgery, may suffer lower than healthy levels of vitamin B12.

Signs of Vitamin B12 deficiency
Deficiency of Vitamin B12 has been linked to:
Fatigue/Weakness
Decreased sensory perception
Neurasthenia
Diminished reflex response
Mood changes
Cognitive dysfunction
Amenorrhea (lack of menstrual flow)
Pernicious anemia

Potential uses for Vitamin B12
Research indicates that Vitamin B12 may also be useful in the treatment of:
Obesity
Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS)
Neuritis
Menopause
Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
Cardiovascular disease
Osteoporosis
Pernicious anemia