Unlike other nutrients, the human body cannot manufacture vitamin B12. This means we need to obtain vitamin B12 by eating foods rich in the vitamin, or by taking a dietary supplement. Furthermore, as we get older, our bodies absorb less vitamin B12, meaning our elderly population has a much higher risk of developing B12 deficiencies.
So why is B12 so important?
B12’s main job is to keep our nerve and blood cells healthy. The production of our red blood cells (the ones that carry oxygen) reduces if vitamin B12 levels are too low. This can cause symptoms like fatigue, dizziness and weakness. Vitamin B12 also helps prevent a type of anaemia called megaloblastic anaemia that can make us feel tired and weak.
How do I know if I am deficient?
Fatigue and excessive tiredness are two of the most common symptoms of low vitamin B12. Others include, heart palpitations, shortness of breath, constipation, vision loss, pale skin, yellow tinge to the whites of your eyes, muscle weakness, nerve problems like numbness and tingling in the hands & feet, smooth or sore swollen tongue, easy bruising, shaky hands, insomnia, difficulty relaxing, painful joints.
So how else can Vitamin B12 help me?
Elevating your levels of Vitamin B12 can help in the following areas…
• Improving your memory & support for brain related issues
• Helping to prevent heart disease
• Helps regulate the immune system
• Helps regulate your mood & provides a feeling of wellbeing
• Helps with the prevention of anaemia
• Provides support for your gut health and bowel related issues
• Improves the health of your hair & skin