How does VitB12 function in your body and how can low levels effect you?

Vitamin B12, also referred to as cobalamin is a water vitamin that serves numerous crucial roles within the body. It is primarily acquired through sources of animal derived products like meat, fish, eggs and dairy. Lets delve into how Vitamin B12 operates within your body and what happens when its levels are insufficient;

Blood cell production; Vitamin B12 plays a role in stimulating the production of red blood cells in your bone marrow. Working hand in hand with folate, it aids in the formation of hemoglobin. The protein for transporting oxygen to your body’s tissues via blood cells. Inadequate levels of B12 can impair the production of blood cells leading to a condition known as megaloblastic anemia. Symptoms associated with anemia often include fatigue, weakness, pale skin tone and shortness of breath.

Nerve function; Maintaining a system heavily relies on an adequate supply of Vitamin B12. This vitamin contributes significantly to the creation of myelin. A coating that envelops and insulates nerve fibers. The presence of this myelin sheath is critical, for ensuring transmission of nerve impulses throughout the body. When your body lacks sufficient vitamin B12 it can have effects, on your health. One of the consequences is nerve damage and related neurological symptoms like tingling or numbness in the hands and feet difficulties with walking and cognitive issues such as memory loss and confusion. In severe cases a deficiency in B12 it can even cause nerve damage.

Vitamin B12 plays a role in DNA synthesis, which’s the process of creating genetic material within each cell of your body. It assists in the formation of nucleotides which are the building blocks of DNA. Without B12 this process can be disrupted, potentially leading to cell growth and division. This disruption may contribute to an increased risk of types of cancer.

Insufficient levels of vitamin B12 can result in effects on your body;

1. Anemia; When there’s a deficiency in B12 it can cause anemia—a condition characterized by fatigue, weakness and other symptoms associated with oxygen carrying capacity in the blood.
2. Issues; Nerve damage caused by a lack of B12 can lead to neurological symptoms such as tingling sensations, numbness, difficulty walking and impairments in memory and cognitive function.
3. Increased vulnerability to health conditions; If you experience prolonged B12 deficiency it may heighten your risk, for heart disease, stroke and specific neurological disorders.
4. Problems; The absorption of vitamin B12 depends on the functioning of both the stomach and small intestine.
   Various factors, including anemia or specific gastrointestinal surgeries can impede the absorption of vitamin B12 resulting in a deficiency.

It is crucial to ensure levels of vitamin B12 by maintaining a balanced diet or considering supplements when necessary. This is especially important, for individuals who’re at risk of deficiency, such as vegetarians, vegans, older adults and those with conditions that affect nutrient absorption. If you suspect a deficiency in vitamin B12 or experience symptoms related to it it is advisable to seek advice from a healthcare professional, for diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Author: Susan Clarkson