Vitamin B12 or Cyanocobalamin

Vitamin B12 or Cyanocobalamin, also know as the energy vitamin, helps to reduce tiredness, increases alertness and can give you a felling of overall invigoration.

Vitamin B12 (V-B12) is a complex, water-soluble vitamin that also contains the metallic ion cobalt.

One of the most important functions of V-B12 is its ability to work together with Folic Acid in the production of DNA. Due to its ability to recycle certain enzymes, it plays an important role in maintaining the proper functioning of cells, blood and nerves.

V-B12 also helps reduce levels of homocysteine. Homocysteine is an amino acids that can damage artery walls and increase the risk of developing heart diseases.

V-B12 can possibly treat symptoms associated with a loss of calcium (including osteoporosis and damage to the teeth) and may even be able to relieve some symptoms of depression.

Deficiency effects

A deficiency of V-B12 is rare, since it is absorbed through the gastrointestinal system and your liver is able to store adequate supplies. However, if you have stomach problems the absorption could be difficult which could result in a deficiency even if you consume the right foods or get adequate supplements.

The symptoms of a V-B12 deficiency will develop gradually over a period of at least a year or longer. The first symptom would be anemia, other symptoms would include loss of memory concentration, tiredness, loss of appetite, numbness, irritability, diarrhea and the development of a yellowish tint on the skin.

Other possible symptoms that could result from a V-B12 deficiency are brain damage and deterioration of the nervous system.

Also a V-B12 deficiency can cause homocysteine levels to go-up, thereby increasing the risk for development of heart and/or coronary disease.

Foods high in Vitamin B12

The best naturally-occurring resource of V-B12 is animal liver. Other good sources are meat, fish, eggs and cheese.

Please note that V-B12 is NOT found in plant tissue.

For most adults, 3 mcg each day is sufficient.

However, since there no toxic side effects to V-B12, consuming more can help prevent birth effects and ensure an adequate production of red blood cells.