Vitamin B12

Chemical Name:Cobalamine

Description:Vitamin B12 was the last water-soluble B vitamin developed. This vitamin cannot be synthesized, it must be produced by bacteria or molds. The cobalt present in vitamin B12 gives it a dark red color. RNA and DNA production is influenced by this vitamin. Iron is able to function better when cobalamine is present. This vitamin is crucial for normal metabolism of fats, proteins, and carbohydrates as well as in the metabolism of nerve tissue.

Absorption/Storage:In the absorption process of vitamin B12, calcium must be present. Once absorbed, this vitamin binds to serum proteins called globulins and is taken to different tissues via the bloodstream. The main tissues that receive the vitamin are those that play a part in red blood cell formation. These tissues include the liver, kidneys, heart, brain, blood, and bone marrow. Since this is a water-soluble vitamin, storage is not an important factor, the excess is excreted.

Dosage/Toxicity:The Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) suggest the following amounts: newborns-6 months 0.3ug, infants 6 months-1 year 0.5ug, children 1-3 years 0.7ug, children 4-6 years 1.0ug, children 7-10 years 1.4ug, males and females 11-51+ years 2.0ug, lactating women 2.6ug. Before taking more than 10 times the RDA, you should consult with a physician.

Deficiency:A large majority of the population is deficient in vitamin B12. The signs of a deficiency include soreness of the legs and arms, a reduction in reflex time, memory loss and fatigue. Pernicious anemia may result from an insufficient amount of vitamin B12. This form of anemia is caused by an inability of the bone marrow to produce mature red blood cells. Symptoms of this disease are as follows: soreness of the tongue, a yellowing of the skin, complications of the digestive tract, diarrhea, and loss of appetite. Pernicious anemia may be fatal unless treated.

Common UseVitamin B12 is notorious for being an energizer, stimulating the metabolism. Due to this, vitamin B12 is used to treat chronic fatigue syndrome. This vitamin helps with all sorts of bone disorders such as osteoporosis and osteoarthritis (a degenerative bone disorder). Other common uses include improving concentration, decreasing nervous irritability, and enhancing the growth rate of children. The liver may resist complications caused by toxic substances.

Food Sources:Fish, dairy products, liver, eggs, pork, and beef

Precautions:Consult a physician if pregnant, symptoms of nausea, diarrhea, or dizziness last more than a week, or if new symptoms appear.

Scientific References: Groff, J., Gropper, S., and Hunt, S. (1995). Advanced Nutrition and Human Metabolism. St. Paul Minnesota: West Publishing Company. Gropper and Hamilton. (1987). The Biochemistry of Human Nutrition. St. Paul, Minnesota: West Publishing Company. Kirschmann, G. and Kirschmann, J. (1996). Nutrition Almanac. New York, New York: McGraw Hill. Murray, M., (1996) Encyclopedia of Nutritional Supplements. Unites States of America: Prima Publishing. Murray, M. and Pizzorno, J., (1998) Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine. United States of America: Prima Publishing. National Research Council. (1989). Recommended Dietary Allowance. Washington D.C.: National Academy Press. Null, G., (1998) The Complete Encyclopedia of Natural Healing. New York, New York: Kensington Publishing Corp.