Vitamin B12, also called cobalamin is an imperative nutrient that has a pivotal role in diverse physiological processes within the body. It is a necessary vitamin that the human body cannot create independently and therefore needs to be obtained through diet or supplementation.
Sources of Vitamin B12
Some sources of Vitamin B12 are meat, fish, eggs, dairy products as well as fortified plant-based foods like soy milk, cereals, and nutritional yeast. Individuals who follow vegetarian or vegan diets consume fewer animal-derived products that are rich in Vitamin B12 and therefore can be at a higher risk of developing a deficiency.
Importance of Vitamin B12
It is crucial to note the importance of Vitamin B12 for various physiological processes in the body. It plays an indispensable role in creating red blood cells that carry oxygen to every part of the body. Also, it is essential for DNA synthesis which affects cell division and growth.
Deficiency in B12
When there is a deficiency in Vitamin B12 there will be issues with DNA synthesis which can lead to malfunctioning cells and tissues. The nervous system also depends on Vitamin B12 as it assists in producing myelin; this substance protects nerve fibers situated over all parts of the body transmitting signals between them and the brain.
In case there is not enough Vitamin B12 available then nerve damage may occur which can result in tingling sensations, numbness, or weakness.
Common Symptoms of Deficiency
The symptoms individuals with insufficient levels of Vitamin B12 may experience include fatigue, weakness, dizziness as well as tingling sensations and numbness as well as balance issues. In some severe cases, neurological damage may occur causing memory loss confusion, or even dementia along with the megaloblastic anemia previously mentioned.
Solution
Internal issues like megaloblastic anemia caused by immature red blood cells could be circumvented by meeting the body’s need for Vitamin B12. In order to do so, individuals should adopt a balanced meal plan inclusive of animal products that provide high levels of essential vitamins or take supplements where necessary.
Notably, proper bodily functions requiring the nutrient include DNA synthesis and neurotransmitter formation within the nervous system; hence deficiencies may lead to adverse outcomes such as dementia or neurological damage.
Most Jordanians suffer from B12 deficiency, to prevent the unwanted effects of B12 deficiency, Book Your Appointment with Unilabs for a blood test checkup.