Vitamin B12, which is also called cobalamin, is part of the water-soluble vitamins and contains cobalt, a vital element that goes into red blood cells. Vitamin B12 is resistant to heat, air, but is destroyed by light, UV, and acids.
Recommended daily dose of vitamin B12: 1-6 mcg
Vitamin B12 sources
• Vitamin B12 is found only in animal foods: meat (especially liver), milk, dairy products, eggs, and seafood (crab, oysters, clams)
The vitamin B12 benefits for your health:
• It plays a key role in the smooth functioning of the nervous system, by helping in the formation of myelin which wraps the nerve fibers, essential for the transmission of nerve impulses throughout the body. Thus vitamin B12 can be considered to be a precious ally in maintaining the sense of touch and hearing acuity, in the perception of pain, in balance, but also in increasing the learning capacity, preventing memory loss and keeping mental aplomb;
•It participates in the process of cell renewal, DNA synthesis, iron, vitamin C, pantothenic acid, folic acid and vitamin B15 synthesis;
• involved in the maturation of red blood cells, thereby removing fatigue and anemia.
Useful health tips about vitamin B12
• Therapeutically consuming vitamin B12 is not indicated in cancer patients;
• Calcium facilitates uptake of vitamin B12;
• Intravenous administration of cobalamin can counteract the effects of cyanide poisoning;
• Bodybuilders that are unwilling to abuse anabolic steroid can consume supplements of vitamin B12, which is a natural anabolic;
• Associated with other B vitamins, this vitamin helps regulate the menstrual cycle.
Find out more health benefits of vitamins and minerals.
February 9, 2010
Diets & Nutrition