Vitamin B12 – alsoCobalamin– refers to various compounds that all contain a cobalt atom. In order for vitamin B12 to be able to pass from the intestine into the body, it must be bound to a specific transport substance that is produced in the stomach: the so-calledIntrinsic factorIf this is not produced sufficiently, for example due to stomach problems, it can lead to a long-term vitamin B12 deficiency. Vitamin B12 can be stored in the body for years.
What are the functions of vitamin B12?
Vitamin B12 plays a major role inCell divisionas well as theBlood formationin the bone marrow and is necessary for normal blood clotting. It also supports the structure and function of the entire nervous system. Vitamin B12 also influencesFolic acid metabolismIf there is a vitamin B12 deficiency, the folic acid stores in the tissue remain inactive, resulting in an additional deficiency of active folic acid.
Use of vitamin B12
Vitamin B12 supplements can be useful in a number of cases. For example, vegans should make sure they get enoughVitamin B12through appropriate supplements, as it can only be absorbed in significant quantities through animal products. Scientists discovered vitamin B12 during years of research into the causes of a specific form of anemia (anemia) caused by vitamin B12 deficiency,Pernicious anemia.
Deficiency symptoms can also be caused byinflammatory diseases of the gastric mucosa– because the intrinsic factor is then only insufficiently produced.Diseases of the digestive tractcan hinder absorption.
In addition, regular intake of vitamin B12 is suitable forPrevention of arteriosclerosisIn combination with folic acid and vitamin B6, vitamin B12 can reduce elevated homocysteine levels. Homocysteine is considered a risk factor for atherosclerosis.
Which foods contain vitamin B12?
Larger amounts of the vitamin are found in liver, fish, meat, milk, cheese, and eggs. Since vitamin B12 is produced by microorganisms, it is also found in fermented foods such as sauerkraut. Please note: Vitamin B12 isvery sensitive to light and oxygen. During food preparation, significant amounts of the vitamin are usually lost.
Am I lacking vitamin B12?
If one of the following applies, supplementing your vitamin B12 intake could be beneficial for you:
* Are you vegan? (Do you eat exclusively plant-based foods?)
* Are you over 60 years old?
* Have you had stomach surgery? Do you suffer from chronic gastritis?
