Vitamin B12 Supplements

What Is Vitamin B12?

Found within every cell of the human body, vitamin B12 (cobalamin) is a cofactor in fatty acid and amino acid metabolism. First isolated within the liver in 1948, this water-soluble vitamin has been found to be extremely beneficial in supporting proper red blood cell formation, energy and endurance and promoting a healthy nervous system. Most foods with vitamin B12 are animal products such as fish, meat, poultry, milk and eggs. For vegetarians, vegans or anyone whose diet does not regularly include animal products, taking a supplement is a great way to protect against a vitamin B12 deficiency.

7 Benefits of Vitamin B12

Supports red blood cell production

Vitamin B12 is essential in helping the human body produce red blood cells, which are responsible for the transport of oxygen. In extreme cases, vitamin B12 deficiency can result in a number of health concerns, including anemia.

Benefits cardiovascular health

If you’re looking to give your cardiovascular system a healthy kick, vitamin B12 is an excellent option. The heart health effects of B12 are linked to its ability to lower homocysteine, which is believed to be a significant risk factor for heart disease.

Enhances hair, skin and nail health

Due to vitamin B12’s ability to boost cell production within the body, it’s vital for maintaining skin and hair health. Proper amounts of B12 can promote stronger hair and nails while fostering adequate skin hydration, which can help combat many potential minor skin issues.

Promotes a healthy mood

Research indicates that taking a B12 supplement may help individuals regulate their mood and help them reduce stress. This is due to B12’s ability to increase the compound known as SAMe (S-adenosyl methionine), which aids neurological function.

Boosts digestive function

One of the things that B12 is known for is its ability to enhance enzyme production which aids in the breakdowns of foods and increased metabolism. That’s not all! B12 both fights off some of the harmful bacteria within your digestive tract, while helping some of the good bacteria flourish.

Essential for fetal development

Taking a vitamin B12 supplement during pregnancy is an excellent way to nourish fetal health. B12 vitamins are vital in allowing the body to manufacture nucleic acid, also known as DNA. Nucleic acid aids in fetal growth and may also help reduce the risk of congenital disabilities.

Promotes energy within the body

B12 aids in the breakdown of foods and converts them into energy. It also aids in the ability to deliver adequate levels of oxygen to cells throughout the entire body.

How Does the Body Use Vitamin B12?

Once ingested, the stomach uses hydrochloric acid to separate B12 from the food protein that it is attached to. It then connects to the stomach protein known as intrinsic factor, at which point it is absorbed into the body to be used to support energy, cardio health, blood cell formation, digestion and more.

Vitamin B12 Pairings

Folic Acid

Vitamin B12 converts folic acid (B9) back to its bioactive form. Without B12 the body may have large amounts of folic acid but is unable to use it unless B12 “unlocks” it and makes it usable. Folic acid is essential for pregnant mothers and can help promote a healthy pregnancy. Folic acid also boosts mental wellbeing, free radical neutralization, muscle strength and may even aid fertility.

B12 Food Sources

Fortunately, B12 vitamins are abundant in a healthy diet and can be found in a wide variety of foods like beef, fish, poultry, milk, eggs and other animal products.

More Information About Vitamin B12

Vitamin B12 Rich Foods (for Vegans and Omnivores)

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