Posted by Vitamins are the building blocks of life. They protect against deficiency diseases such as scurvy and anemia without sufficient intake. Vitamin B12, however, is an important nutrient that many people don’t get enough of in their diet. Because it’s involved in forming DNA and red blood cells, you’re at risk for most health issues if your levels are low. It’s always important to stay up-to-date on any vitamins that you’re missing from your daily diet.
People with a healthy diet typically have enough Vitamin B12, but some get too little of the nutrient. The classic symptoms of a deficiency are fatigue, weakness, and trouble walking. In some cases, these symptoms may be mild and go unnoticed or may not reveal themselves until later in life when blood tests are performed. Here are the benefits of Vitamin B12 intake.
1. Prevents Birth Defects
A woman who doesn’t get enough Vitamin B12 may have a child who develops birth defects such as neural tube defects like spina bifida. The most serious form, known as neural tube defects, typically occurs in babies before birth. They happen because the spinal cord and brain aren’t developed properly during pregnancy. Without Vitamin B12, the body’s blood cells can’t reproduce properly, and neural tube defects can develop.
2. Helps in the Formation of RBC and Prevent Anemia
The development of red blood cells requires Vitamin B12 to produce DNA. Without sufficient levels, you could be at high risk for anemia and other health issues that can lead to fatigue. Red blood cells are vital in carrying oxygen throughout the body, which is essential to overall health. It’s always important to have sufficient levels on hand because your body can’t make it on its own.
3. Improves Immunity
Your white blood cells are integral to immune function and require Vitamin B12. You could be more susceptible to colds, pneumonia, and other infections without enough of it. It’s often recommended that older people take supplements because immunity naturally weakens with age. People with conditions such as celiac disease are at risk for Vitamin B12 deficiencies because they need to avoid gluten in their diets. You can buy vitamin B12 supplements from pharmacies, health food stores, and the internet.
4. Prevents Depression and Improves Your Mood
Many people who are deficient in this vitamin may experience depression and unexplained fatigue. If you’re feeling a lot of stress and your levels are low, you’ll probably feel depressed. These symptoms can affect your mood and make it harder to work on tasks that require concentration. Your mental health is important because it can affect how you interact with others and lead to job problems or other difficulties.
5. Prevents Osteoporosis and Supports Bone Health
As you age, your bones become weaker and more prone to fracture. It’s a natural part of aging, but it’s usually triggered by a host of factors, many of which are beyond our control. That said, vitamin B12 is essential in forming new bone tissue. As you age, your body makes less collagen and calcium.
The Vitamin B12 in your body is an important contributor to bone health. It’s part of the metabolic pathway that absorbs calcium. You could be more susceptible to broken bones and osteoporosis if you don’t get enough.
6. Reduces Macular Degeneration
Again, without enough vitamin B12, you could be at risk for eye issues, such as age-related macular degeneration. This condition is a leading cause of blindness in older people and is the leading cause of impaired vision among people over 50. More than 40% of women over 70 experience macular degeneration each year. Vitamin B12 has been shown to slow down the progression of this condition by about 30%. It occurs when the macula becomes damaged, resulting in blurred or distorted vision. Your risk for this condition is related to a lack of nutrients, including vitamin B12.
7. Gives You Energy Boost
For those who don’t get enough of this vitamin, it could give you energy boosts such as endurance and strength. It’s part of the body’s biochemical system that makes up ATP. This process is essential for all cells to carry out their functions. You could become weak and tired without sufficient levels because your body can’t produce enough ATP.
Conclusion
For most people, a deficiency in Vitamin B12 is rare. Chronic alcoholics and those who have conditions such as Crohn’s disease are at risk for a deficiency. If you’re concerned about your levels, speak with your doctor. A simple blood test can determine if you have a deficiency. If so, dietary changes may help correct the issue, or you may need supplements to reduce your risk for health complications in the future.