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Vitamin B-12 also known as Cyanocobamin) Only found in animal products. - Requires
3 hours for absorption. The vitamin has to combine with the gastric intrinsic factor
(a glyco protein produced in the stomach) before it can be absorbed in the small
bowel.
Involved in the metabolism of every cell, vitamin B12 primarily functions as a regulator for normal brain and nervous system function as well as in the formation of blood. Humans cannot naturally produce vitamin B12.
Animals receive their required B12 by consuming bacteria which is the only organism able to produce it naturally. While some plant foods do contain vitamin B12. Humans must get their required B12 from meat (especially liver and shellfish), dairy products and eggs.
While eggs are considered a good source of B12 they have the ability to also block the absorption of B12.
Vitamin B12 is the most structurally complicated vitamin. The discovery of B12 occurred because of its relationship with the disease pernicious anaemia.
While deficiency of this vitamin is quiet rare it is more common amongst people suffering from autoimmune, neurological, and inflammatory diseases. B12 deficiency can cause severe and irreversible damage especially to the brain and nervous system.
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Slightly lower than normal levels of B12 can lead to:
- Fatigue.
- Depression.
- Poor memory
- Symptoms of mania and psychosis.
Deficiency may cause:
- Several neurological abnormalities.
- Overlapping cerebellar and sensory ataxia
- Associated with autoimmune pernicious anaemia.
Vitamin B12 regenerates folate in the body.
Vitamin B 12 is essential for the remyelination process.
Involved in:
- Maintenance of the central nervous system.
- Promotes growth and release of energy.
- Assists the manufacture of red blood cells and the maintenance of red blood cells.
- Used in the metabolism of fats, proteins and carbohydrates.