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vitamin-B 12
Vitamin B12 is a water soluble vitamin that is mainly found in animal products. It is important for the formation of red blood cells, the maintenance of the nervous system, and the metabolism of proteins and carbohydrates. It is also needed for the absorption of food from the intestines.
Types
There are four types of vitamin B12: cyanocobalamin, methylcobalamin, hydroxycobalamin, and adenosylcobalamin.
- Cyanocobalamin is the most common type of B12, and is found in most supplements and fortified foods.
- Methylcobalamin and hydroxycobalamin are the two forms of B12 that are active in the body.
- Adenosylcobalamin is the form of B12 that is used by the body to produce energy.
Sources
There are many sources of vitamin B12. Animal products such as meat, poultry, eggs, and dairy products are good sources of vitamin B12. Some plant-based foods, such as seaweed, contain vitamin B12, but the amount in these foods is very small and not considered a reliable source of the vitamin. Vitamin B12 is also added to some breakfast cereals and other foods.
Deficiency
A vitamin is an organic compound and a vital nutrient that an organism requires in order to survive. There are two types of vitamins: water soluble and fat soluble. The water soluble vitamins are C and the B vitamins. The fat soluble vitamins are A, D, E, and K. Vitamin B12 is a water soluble vitamin.
A deficiency of vitamin B12 can cause anemia, which is a condition that results from a lack of red blood cells. Symptoms of anemia include fatigue, shortness of breath, and a pale complexion. A deficiency of vitamin B12 can also cause nerve damage, which can cause tingling and numbness in the hands and feet, as well as problems with balance and coordination.
Vitamin B12 is found in animal products, such as meat, poultry, fish, eggs, and milk. It is also found in some fortified foods, such as breakfast cereal and energy bars. If you do not eat animal products or if you are a vegan, you may need to take a vitamin B12 supplement to ensure that you are getting enough of this vitamin.
