Vitamin B12

Vitamin B12 Basics

A disease termed Pernicious Anemia results if the body does not receive sufficient amounts of Vitamin B12, also known as Cobalamin. Pernicious anemia is a progressive disease that disrupts maturation of red blood cells in bone marrow. The red blood cells do not receive enough oxygen and the nervous system is affected. The symptoms of pernicious anemia include extreme weakness, burning and/or tingling in the extremities, weight loss, confusion, and loss of memory and balance. Often elderly persons are affected by pernicious anemia. This is because elderly people (due to aging) are unable to absorb enough Vitamin B12 from foods eaten.

Dosage Guidelines

• Adults - 2.0 mcg
• Pregnant Women - 2.2 mcg
• Women Breastfeeding - 2.6 mcg
• Children - Consult a medical professional prior to giving a child Vitamin B12
• Elderly - Consult a medical professional to determine the correct dosage. The adult dosage may not be suitable.

Sources

Vitamin B12 is found in milk, eggs, fish, cheese, and animal protein. Liver and kidney are good sources for this nutrient.

When purchased in vitamin form, it may be labeled as cyanocobalamin. It is available in multivitamins or as B-complex in tablet, soft gel, chewable, liquid drops, and in lozenge form.

It has been determined that Vitamin B12 may help prevent heart disease. Taking a combination of Vitamin B12, folic acid, and Vitamin B6 decreased Homocysteine (associated with heart disease) levels.

Cautions

Generally nontoxic. Patients treated for hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) should check with a medical professional first. Some medications used to treat this disorder may inhibit Vitamin B12 absorption.