Vitamin B12 is an essential vitamin, utilized by the body for myriad purposes. For some people, supplementing with vitamin B12 can be very beneficial. Here, we take a brief look at the chemical roles of B12 in the body, and look at five of the best reasons to supplement with vitamin B12.
Vitamin B12 in the Body
Vitamin B12 is a water-soluble vitamin that the human body requires for a variety of essential processes. Some of the most important functions that vitamin B12 contributes to include DNA synthesis, red blood cell formation, and the functioning and myelination of nerve cells and the nervous system as a whole. It works with enzymes to contribute to the production of dozens of substances, including RNA, proteins, and lipids.
The recommended daily intake (RDA) of vitamin B12 for most adults is between 2.4 and 2.8 micrograms. Many people consume the RDA of vitamin B12 regularly. This vitamin occurs naturally in many animal-based foods, but it is not naturally present in plant-based foods. Therefore, vegetarians in particular are at risk of being deficient in B12. Even some people who consume sufficient amounts are deficient due to anemia or the use of certain prescription medications. Deficiency in vitamin B12 can lead to low counts of white and red blood cells, causing fatigue and unwanted neurological changes.
A vitamin B12 supplement can be beneficial. Different forms of the vitamin are available as an oral supplement. Two of the most common forms are called methylcobalamin and cyanocobalamin; However, there is no established difference in value among the different supplemental forms of B12. A B12 supplement might contain a much higher amount of the vitamin than the standard RDA, but this is okay because your body will absorb only a small amount of it.
5 Great Reasons to Take B12
Red blood cell formation: Vitamin B12 is crucial for the formation of red blood cells. Low bodily levels of B12 can cause anemia, wherein insufficient red blood cell production occurs, and the blood is unable to transport a sufficient amount of oxygen to the vital organs. Supplementing with B12 can remedy anemia by supporting the production and flourishing of red blood cells.
Healthy pregnancy: Sufficient B12 levels are very important for a healthy pregnancy. A deficiency in B12 during the early stages of pregnancy can greatly increase the risk of neural tube defects, premature birth, and even a loss of pregnancy. Supplementing with B12 during pregnancy could reduce the risk of complications.
Long-term bone health: Research supports the intake of vitamin B12 for long-term bone health. This could be because vitamin B12 has a positive correlation with bone density. A deficiency in B12 has been shown to contribute to poor bone health, and osteoporosis.
Preventing macular degeneration: Research supports the use of vitamin B12 for lowering the risk of macular degeneration by decreasing homocysteine levels. Large-scale studies confirm this benefit.
Brain health: Vitamin B12 is necessary and beneficial for brain health in a few ways. First, B12 is crucial for the health of neurons in the brain. Second, research shows that a deficiency in B12 correlates with poor memory. Third, other research shows that adults in the early stages of dementia experienced a decrease in cognitive decline with regular B12 supplementation. For these reasons, a B12 supplement is recommended for overall brain health, especially for older adults.
Vitamin B12 is an essential vitamin that some people are deficient in. Taking a B12 supplement can remedy B12 deficiency and support red blood cell proliferation, bone health, brain health, and more. Talk to your healthcare provider before taking any supplement for the first time.