Vitamin B12 prevents a particular form of anemia. It is important for a proper immune system. Vitamin B12 also plays a role in the development of healthy red blood cells, it ensures proper functioning of the nervous system and contributes to the energy supply. Vitamin B12 is part of the vitamin B complex.
Source
Vitamin B12 is only found in foods of animal origin, such as milk, milk products, meat, meat products, fish and eggs. Vitamin B12 is the only water-soluble vitamin that is stored in the body.
Effect
- Supports energy level and helps in case of fatigue.
- Supports the process of cell renewal.
- Plays an important role in the development of nerve cells and red blood cells.
- Improves functioning of the intestinal flora.
- Good for immune system.
- Good for memory, concentration and learning performance.
- Good for state of mind.
Shortage
The most common cause of a shortage of vitamin B12 is a disturbed uptake in the gastrointestinal tract. People who don’t use animal products for a long time, such as vegans, can also develop a vitamin B12 shortage.
The symptoms of a shortage of vitamin B12 often occur only after years, because the body pulls up a stock of this vitamin. Vitamin B12 shortage causes a form of anemia, with symptoms such as fatigue, difficulty breathing, angina pectoris (chest pain) and loss of appetite. In addition, a shortage can affect the nervous system, causing tingling in the fingers, paresthesia, memory loss, coordination problems and muscle weakness in the legs. The elderly may have problems with their memory as a result of too little vitamin B12.
Overdose
There are no known adverse effects to the body of a high vitamin B12 intake. The body itself can, in case of a high intake, reduce the uptake of vitamin B12 from food.