Vitamin B12 - Cyanocobalamine

What does it do?

Vitamin B12 is named the “red vitamin” as it is a red crystalline compound. Needed for making use of protein. It is also sometimes called the “energy vitamin – It helps the body carry oxygen, hence essential for energy. It is needed for synthesis of DNA and it is essential for the metabolism of the nerve tissue and necessary for the health of the entire nervous system. It also deals with tobacco smoke and other toxins.

Deficiency Signs

Some deficiency signs are; Poor hair condition, eczema or dermatitis, mouth oversensitive to heat or cold, irritability, anxiety or tension, lack of energy, constipation, tender or sore muscles, pale skin.

Restricted diets, as seen in vegetarians or poor nations, can be very limited in B12 and supplementation is important.

Food Sources of Vitamin B12

B12 is found in significant amounts only in the animal protein foods: Oysters, sardines, trout, mackerel, yoghurt, tuna, lamb, eggs, shrimp, cottage cheese, milk, turkey and chicken, cheese.

Best Supplement

Cyanocobalamin

What Helps Vitamin B12 in our Bodies?

Vitamin B12 works with folic acid. It is best taken as B complex with food.

What Robs our Bodies of Vitamin B12?

Alcohol, smoking, lack of stomach acid.