Vitamin B12

Vitamin B12 is a water soluble vitamin with a key role in the normal functioning of the brain and nervous system, and for the formation of red blood cells. It is one of the eight B vitamins. Typically, water-soluble vitamins can not be stored by the body. Vitamin B12 is special, because the body can store it for years in the liver. It is normally involved in the metabolism of every cell of the body, especially affecting DNA synthesis and regulation, but also fatty acid synthesis and energy production.

Vitamin B12 is the name for a class of chemically-related compounds, all of which have vitamin activity. It is structurally the most complicated vitamin and it contains the biochemically rare element cobalt.

Vitamin B12 is naturally found in meat (especially liver and shellfish), milk and eggs. Vitamin B12 is found in foods that come from animals, including fish, meat, poultry, eggs, milk, and milk products. Because vitamin B12 comes primarily from animal products, people who follow a strict vegetarian or vegan diet and do not consume eggs or dairy products may require vitamin B12 supplements.

Vitamin B12 deficiencies occur when the body is unable to properly use the vitamin. Pernicious anemia can make the body unable to absorb vitamin B12 from the intestinal tract. Those who had surgery on specific parts of the small intestine or stomach are also prone to a deficiency if they do not take B12 supplements. Low levels of B12 can cause anemia, numbness or tingling in the arms and legs, weakness, and loss of balance.