subject: Vitamin B12 Benefits [print this page] Vitamin B12, also called Cobalamin is a water soluble vitamin required for a range of biological functions in the human body. From metabolism of cells to the steady functioning of the nervous system, Vitamin B12 plays a major role in maintaining a healthy physical state. Spirulina is the best source of Vitamin B12. It can also be obtained from eggs, fish, meat, dairy products, etc.
Vitamin B12 has numerous health benefits and can help your body in many ways. Here's a look at the various benefits offered by Vitamin B12:
1.) Creation of Red Blood Cells - The maintenance, formation and repair of red blood cells is mostly dependent on Vitamin B12. Athletes and people with low energy levels often take B12 injections, for an instant increase in energy levels. Vitamin B12 also plays a vital role in the development and regeneration of DNA and RNA (the genetic material in our body). It's important for the rapid synthesis of DNA and RNA during cell division, especially in tissues where cells are dividing rapidly.
B12 Deficiency can affect DNA production and cause abnormal cell growth, resulting in anemia.
2.) Healthy Nervous System - Vitamin B12 assists in the smooth and proper functioning of the nerve cells and brain in the body. Each nerve fiber is enclosed by an insulating fatty sheath made up of Myelin, which is a complex protein. Myelin not just protects the nerves but also allows transmission of electrical impulses among the nerve cells throughout the body. Vitamin B12 plays a key role in the metabolism of fatty acids important for maintenance of Myelin.
A lack of Vitamin B12 can have serious neurological effects ranging from loss of sensation to visual impairment to memory loss and dementia.
3.) Cures Depression - Vitamin B12 is known to promote activity of hormones and neurotransmitters that can influence your mood and emotional state. These hormones add Serotonin, Dopamine and Melatonin. Patients with depression are often prescribed Vitamin B12 supplements as it can trigger serotonin 'happy hormone' production and uplift their mood.
A deficiency of B12 vitamin can lead to anxiety, stress and depression.
4.) Manages Homocysteine Levels - Proper dosage of Vitamin B12 in combination with Folic acid can efficiently control the homocysteine levels (an amino acid made from proteins) in the blood plasma cells. Vitamin B12 deficiency can result in hematological diseases, increasing the risk of heart diseases, stroke and osteoporosis
5.) Healthy Skin & Hair - Vitamin B12 is vital for RNA and DNA synthesis and cell reproduction. Our hair, skin and nails undergo a process of constant renewal and growth, which is why they need enough amount of B Vitamins, especially B12 for sustaining a healthy growth. Insufficiency of Vitamin B12 can lead to dry skin, wrinkles, acne, brittle nails and hair and skin problems such as dermatitis.
6.) Stimulates Absorption of Folic Acid - Folic acid is essential for the synthesis of red blood cells in the body. With out Vitamin B12, folic acid can't be regenerated in the body and becomes trapped in a metabolically useless form. For correct absorption and regeneration of folic acid, one needs to get adequate amount of Vitamin B12. Both folic acid and Vitamin B12 are dependent on each other, as deficiency of Vitamin B12 is followed by a deficiency of folic acid, and vice versa.
7.) Weight reduction - Vitamin B12 is also known as the 'Energy Vitamin' since it can give a real and instant energy boost. It can speed up the metabolism process, thus burning more calories and increasing the rate of weight reduction. It also increases the total energy levels in the body, allowing you to increase your level of exercise and physical activity.
Also as we discussed previously, Vitamin B12 helps in fighting stress and depression, symptoms which are mostly connected with weight gain.
8.) Encourages Healthy Pregnancy - Compared to typical adults, pregnant women need a higher amount of Vitamin B12 to make red blood cells, maintain a healthy nervous system , release energy from food and to process folic acid. B12 deficiency can cause birth defects and even miscarriage. The RDA (Recommended Dietary Allowance) of Vitamin B12 for pregnant girls is 2.6 mcg per day, and it is essential that this requirement is met.
9.) Helps Combat Mental Decline - Vitamin B12 is a vital nutrient essential for everyone including older adults. As per recent researches, enough amount of Vitamin B12 can eliminate mental decline associated with old age. Alzheimer's diseases, Dementia and short-term memory loss can all be prevented, as Vitamin B12 promotes healthy functioning of the brain and neurological system.
Experts have found that whenever patients suffering from Alzheimer's or other memory problems were medicated with vitamin B12, numerous of their symptoms faded within six months and they regained mental clarity and focus.
10.) Permits you to Sleep Better - Vitamin B12 enhances the production of Melatonin, a hormone that facilitates healthy sleep patterns. This is especially beneficial for older adults, as with age their body becomes less efficient in making this hormone. Vitamin B12 can assist in increasing Melatonin production allowing older people to sleep better.
While the above described benefits of Vitamin B12 are well documented, there are many other benefits that are being studied by researchers and health experts worldwide. One of such researches shows that Vitamin B12 can drastically increase sperm count and cure male infertility. Likewise, tinnitus (constant ringing in the ears) can also be remedied with B12 supplementation.
Vitamin B12 is undoubtedly an essential nutrient required for most of our life processes - from enhancing physical health to boosting mental performance, Vitamin B12 can help you in many ways. Make sure that you get enough amount of this vitamin either from dietary sources or through B12 supplements.
