VITAMIN B12 – IMPORTANCE,ROLE,SYMPTOMS.

INTRODUCTION

Vitamin B12 also known as Cobalamin ,a water  soluble vitamin. Vitamin B12 is involved in the Metabolism. It is one of the important vitamin in 8 B vitamins. This vitamin is required by animals ,used as a cofactor in DNA synthesis, and in both fatty acid and amino acid Metabolism. Vit B12 is the largest and most structurally complicated vitamin. This vitamin helps the body to convert food into energy and support nervous system.

ROLE

Vitamin B12  helps to keep  body’s blood and nerve cells healthy and helps make DNA, the genetic material in all cells. It helps prevent megaloblastic anaemia, a blood condition that makes people tired and weak. It plays essential role in red blood cell formation, cell metabolism, nerve function and the production of DNA. Vitamin B12 , a key player in the function and development of brain and nerve cells. It is used for development, myelination and function of the central nervous system, healthy red blood cell formation and DNA synthesis.

IMPORTANCE

Manufacturing of red blood cells that are abundant in oxygen. Required for normal functioning of the brain and nervous system. Important for cognitive functioning (ability to think), Formation of red blood cells and anaemia prevention. Help creating and regulate DNA. Possibly preventing congenital abnormalities. Necessary for energy production. Helps in healthy hair growth. Vitamin B12 is essential for healthy blood ,when the body does not have enough B12 ,it leads to decreased red blood cell production(anaemia) which impairs oxygen delivery.

DEFICIENCY SYMPTOMS

Deficiency or insufficiency can occur when levels of Vit B12  become too low to meet the demand of the body. Several factors can cause difficulty in absorbing B12 and leads to a deficiency, that in turn  leads to headaches, fatigue, shortness of breath, numbness, anemia heart palpitations nerve problems depression confusion memory problems mood changes difficulty concentrating tingling in hands and feet extreme tiredness difficulty walking irritability. problem with smell taste or vision. pale skin. weight loss glossitis(a painful, smooth red tongue). megaloblastic (impaired DNA synthesis and formation of large abnormal immature red blood cells.  

CAUSES FOR VITAMIN B12 DEFICIENCY

Some people can develop vitamin B12  deficiency as  a result of not getting enough Vit B12  from their diet. Few people who do not regularly eat Vit B12 containing foods can become deficient.

TREATMENT FOR VITAMIN B12 DEFICIENCY

The body can store Vit B 12 for upto 4 years and it can get rid of any excess or unwanted Vitamin B12 in the urine. The (NIH) recommends that teens and adults over the age of 14 should consume 2.4 micrograms daily. Pregnant people should consume 2.6 mcg and lactating people 2.8 mcg. Infants upto 6 months old need only 0.4mcg daily. Excessive intake of Vit B12 has not shown toxic or harmful qualities, however people should speak with their physician before starting any new supplements. Vitamin B12 deficiency, anaemia is usually  treated  with injections of Vitamin B12, in a form called hydroxocobalamin, untill ones symptoms have improved. To overcome this deficiency one should eat more of foods that contain Vitamin B12.

VITAMIN B12 RICH FOODS

Vitamin B12 present in foods of animals origin  including fish, meat, poultry, eggs, and dairy products( milk, cheese , yogurt). Plant foods do not naturally contain Vit B12, however fortified breakfast cereals and fortified nutritional yeast are readily available sources of B12 that have high bio-availability. Fruits like apple, banana, blueberry, orange, mango  figs, contains B12. Mushrooms, beatroot, spinach, peas, lentils, nuts like almonds, dates, walnuts, cashew, and seeds like sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, and soy products contains little amounts of B12.

 

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