Vitamin B12 Benefits

Vitamin B12, also known as Cobalamin is a water soluble vitamin necessary 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 fish, eggs meat, dairy products, etc.

Vitamin B12 has numerous health benefits and can help your body in many ways. Here is a look at the various benefits offered by Vitamin B12:

1.) Generation of Red Blood Cells - The maintenance, formation and repair of red blood cells is largely dependent on Vitamin B12. Athletes and people with low energy levels usually take B12 injections, for an instant increase in energy levels. Vitamin B12 also plays a key role in the regeneration and development of DNA and RNA (the genetic material in our body). It is important for the rapid synthesis of RNA and DNA during cell division, specially in tissues where cells are dividing rapidly.

B12 Deficiency can affect DNA production and lead to abnormal cell growth, leading to 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 composed of Myelin, which is a complex protein. Myelin not only 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 essential for maintenance of Myelin.

A lack of Vitamin B12 can have significant neurological effects ranging from loss of sensation to visual impairment to dementia and memory loss.

3.) Treats Depression - Vitamin B12 is best-known to promote activity of hormones and neurotransmitters that can influence your emotional state and mood. These hormones add Serotonin, Dopamine and Melatonin. Patients with depression are usually prescribed Vitamin B12 supplements as it can provoke serotonin 'happy hormone' production and uplift their mood.

A deficiency of B12 vitamin can lead to stress, anxiety and depression.

4.) Regulates Homocysteine Levels - Proper dosage of Vitamin B12 mixed with 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 conditions, increasing the risk of heart diseases, stroke and osteoporosis

5.) Healthy Hair and Skin - Vitamin B12 is vital for RNA and DNA synthesis and cell reproduction. Our skin, hair and nails undergo a process of constant renewal and growth, which is why they need adequate amount of B Vitamins, especially B12 for maintaining a healthy growth. Insufficiency of Vitamin B12 can lead to wrinkles, dry skin acne, brittle hair and nails and skin problems such as dermatitis.

6.) Promotes Absorption of Folic Acid - Folic acid is important for the synthesis of red blood cells in the body. Without Vitamin B12, folic acid cannot 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 Vitamin B12 and folic acid are dependent on each other, as deficiency of Vitamin B12 is followed by a deficiency of folic acid, and vice versa.

7.) Weight loss - Vitamin B12 is also called the 'Energy Vitamin' since it can give a instant and real energy boost. It can speeden up the metabolism process, thus burning more calories and improving the rate of weight loss. It also increases the overall energy levels in the body, allowing you to boost your level of physical activity and exercise.

Moreover as we talked about previously, Vitamin B12 helps in fighting depression and stress, symptoms which are mostly connected with weight gain.

8.) Stimulates Healthy Pregnancy - Compared to normal adults, pregnant girls 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 women is 2.6 mcg per day, and it's essential that this requirement is met.

9.) Helps Combat Mental Decline - Vitamin B12 is a vital nutrient essential for everybody including older adults. According to recent researches, enough amount of Vitamin B12 can prevent mental decline associated with old age. Alzheimer's diseases, Dementia and short-term memory loss can all be prevented, as Vitamin B12 promotes healthy performance of the neurological system and brain.

Specialists have found that whenever patients suffering from Alzheimer's or other memory problems were treated with vitamin B12, many of their symptoms disappeared within six months and they regained mental clarity and focus.

10.) Allows you to Sleep Better - Vitamin B12 improves 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 help in increasing Melatonin production allowing the elderly to sleep better.

While the above mentioned benefits of Vitamin B12 are well documented, there are several other benefits that are being studied by scientists and health experts worldwide. One of such studies shows that Vitamin B12 can drastically increase sperm count and cure male infertility. Similarly, tinnitus (constant ringing in the ears) can also be treated with B12 supplementation.

Vitamin B12 is undoubtedly an important nutrient necessary for most of our life processes - from enhancing physical health to boosting mental performance, Vitamin B12 can help you in numerous ways. Ensure that you get enough amount of this vitamin either through B12 supplements or from dietary sources.

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