Watch out your V B12

THE IMPORTANCE OF TAKING VITAMIN B12 SUPPLEMENT

It is very common for vegans and some vegetarians to lack this vitamin in their bodies, this happens because B12 is sourced by ingesting derived animal products. But that doesn’t mean that meat-eaters are not exempt from a deficiency too.  Let’s see how…

Why do we need B12

We need vitamin B12 to make red blood cells and keep the neurological system functioning and to keep the body’s nerves and blood cells healthy. 

How much do we need

Our bodies don’t need that much of it to reap the benefit. But the amounts will always depend on the age and other factors as the capacity of absorption of each individual.

Absorption

Some people have problems absorbing vitamin B12 from any kind of source. And some will only have a minimal percentage of the benefits because the body just can’t cooperate, and the digestive system is weak. Also, the body’s ability to absorb vitamin B12 slows down with aging.  That’s why individuals over 50 are advised to take it.

Check up

The most accurate way to check if you have a deficiency from B12 is trough the test regarding homocysteine levels and methylmalonic acid. 

To all new mamas

Healthy levels of vitamin B12 can reduce the risks of severe birth defects when you’re pregnant or nursing. (1)

Signs of lack of vitamin B12:

Fatigue is one of the deficiency’s predominant signs. That’s because B12 is vital for red blood cell growth — and those cells bring oxygen to the rest of your body so that organs can work in perfect conditions. In addition, B12 plays a key role in melatonin development.

Because most plant-based foods contain no vitamin B-12, if you are planning to be on a vegan diet, please be aware of alternative sources

Mushrooms:

Boast more B vitamins than other vegetables

Fortified products:

• Nutritional yeast 
• Breakfast cereals 

Supplements

Before taking any supplement, talk first with your doctor. I also recommend making a check-up once a year, to make sure everything is ok. Well, this is valid for everyone that follows any kind of diet. 

What kind of supplement

Search for a vegetarian, non-synthetic brand that contains as much as possible the entire range of B vitamins.

How to storage:

Vitamin B12 is light sensitive, so do not store this in a clear container, preferably keep it in a dark place, such as a refrigerator, or its potency could be seriously affected.