Vitamin B12 Cobalamin

Vitamins

Vitamin B12 Cobalamin

Required for nerve function, synthesis of DNA and RNA, metabolism of energy, enzyme reactions, and production of red blood cells.

Used therapeutically for heart health (lowers homocysteine), male infertility, prevention of neural tube defects, asthma, and cancer prevention.

Deficiency is common among the elderly and those with poor diets, pernicious anemia, depression, Alzheimer's, or malabsorption conditions (celiac disease).

Deficiency symptoms: anemia, appetite loss, constipation, numbness and tingling in the extremities, and confusion. Pregnant women with deficiency have increased risk of giving birth to a child with neural tube defects.

Drugs that deplete B12: acid-lowering drugs (omeprazole, lansoprazole, ranitidine), oral contraceptives, antibiotics, cholestyramine, and metformin.

Supplements are recommended for those over age 50, vegetarians, women planning to become pregnant, those with poor diets, and those at risk of heart disease.

Food Sources : Meat, poultry, fi sh, milk, and fortifi ed cereals

Adequate Intake : (mcg/day)
Men = 2.4
Women = 2.4
Pregnancy = 2.6
Lactation = 2.8

Upper Limit : Not determined

Side Effects : No adverse effects known with food or supplements