Why is Vitamin B12 important?
Vitamin B12 (cobalamin) is of extreme importance for the production of red blood cells, the health of nerves, and the bonding process DNA and RNA to protein. If there is lack of this vitamin, there may be a permanent harm of the nerves. Human organism cannot be in good health if there is vitamin B12 deficiency. Since it can be dissolved in water, you have to eat foods rich in vitamin B12 constantly.
Recommended B12 Daily Dosage
Adults should consume 2.4 micrograms on a daily basis, and infants under the age of one, need 0.4 to 0.5 micrograms. Women in pregnancy or breastfeeding should take 2.6 or 2.8 micrograms.
Symptoms of Vitamin B12 Deficiency
If your organism does not have enough of vitamin B12, you may experience the following symptoms:
- Fatigue, vertigo, weakness
- Increased heartbeat and breathlessness
- Anemia
- Pale or yellowish complexion
- Constipation or diarrhea
- Often gas
- Decreased appetite and taste sensation
- Nausea and vomiting
- Sore tongue
- Skin lesions
- Pins and needles
- Numbness or muscle weakness
- Problems in walking
- Vision issues
- Depression
- Memory loss
- Sudden mood swings
Consequences of Ignoring the Deficiency of Vitamin B12
Deadly anemia
Another name of this type of anemia is pernicious anemia, and it can be fatal. Besides it is a negative result of B12 deficiency, it may also be a cause of it. It leads to a lot of complications such as neurological issues, damaging of the nerves, problems with the gastrointestinal tract, and serious issues with the immune system.
Depression
Mostly older people experience depression due to lack of cobalamin. That is why the vitamin B12 check is important for older people.
Alzheimer’s disease and dementia
Lacking vitamin B12 for a long time causes this condition. Deficiency of the vitamin is linked to increased homocysteine levels that can lead to cerebral atrophy.
Cardiovascular illnesses
This is one more complication on the list of the vitamin B12 insufficiency. On the one hand, vegetarian way of eating is considered to be better for the heart. On the other hand, lack of cobalamin says differently.
Fertility problems
Deficiency of vitamin B12 may also cause issues with the fertility in women. It may change the ovulation. Also, it may interfere with the development of the ovum. The deficiency leads to higher homocysteine levels, and that may provoke the loss of a fetus.
How to Prevent B12 Deficiency?
We recommend you eat healthy food that involves seafood, meat, chicken, dairy products and eggs. Vegans and vegetarians should consume fortified food and supplements.
After all, if you notice any of the symptoms above, you should consult your doctor.
Sources: Cure Joy, The Hearty Soul, Active Beat
