Vitamin B12 is very essential to our body. The proper function of our nerves, brain function, and production of red blood cells depends on it. Cobalamin is another name of vitamin B12.
If you are feeling dizziness, headache, irregular rapid heartbeat, numbness in hand or fingers, fatigue or you have a problem in balancing; chances are there that you may be Vitamin B12 deficient.
Effects of Vitamin B12 deficiency
- Anaemia
- Tingling
- Numbness
- Weakness
- Dementia
- Forgetfulness
- Absentmindedness
- Lack of concentration
- Depression
- High temperature or persistent mild fever.
- Pale skin
Why Deficient?
Vitamin B12 does not generate in our body. Therefore the only option remains is supplement or food.
Those who are on a strict vegetarian diet are at the main risk of B12 deficiency. Since there is no B12 available in plant-based foods, vegans mostly are affected by B12 deficiency.
It is also said that the use of RO water can lead to b12 deficiency. Although it is still in research, most believe that RO drinking water has its relation to B12 deficiency. You can find more on this on this link.
Also Read: Vitamin B12 deficiency and use of RO treated drinking water
People with chronic alcoholism are prone to B12 deficiency as their body also not able to absorb the supplement.
Treatment of B12 deficiency
The human body does not generate this vitamin. Therefore it is to be treated with external sources.
Vitamin B-12 can be found in animal products, such as meat, eggs, fish, and dairy products.
Also Read Healthy Body with Beautiful Skin!
Food Sources of Vitamin B12
The primary sources of B12 are as under.
- Poultry like chicken and others
- Fish like Tuna, salmon, sardines, Herring
- Eggs
- Meat like lamb, ham, and others
- Nutritional Yeast products
- Fortified soy products and breakfast cereals
With this, you also have an option in the form of tablets and injection. Do keep in mind that B12 treatment can last longer and you may have to take pills for longer periods. Also, there is a condition when the body has a problem with vitamin absorption, injections are preferred. But this can be taken only with the advice of a doctor.
Benefits
This Vitamin is essential for healthy skin and hair. B12 reduces skin blemishes, redness, and dryness. It also reduces hair breakage. Your nails become stronger with B12.
B12 has a lot of benefits, you will feel energetic, as it aids metabolism. B12 helps in the condition of fatigue; it helps to maintain energy throughout the day.
It prevents memory loss and dementia.
An adequate level of Vitamin B12 keeps you in a mood, happy and cheerful. Lowers depression level and relieves anxiety and stress.
It also aids in digestion and these help in the overall health of the body.
B12 can help control high cholesterol and high blood pressure levels. B12 maintains heart health.
Due to its advantages, doctors often prescribe B12 medication during pregnancy.
Take care.