About Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12 is one of eight B vitamins that are crucial for normal brain and nervous system function. It also contributes to the formation of blood cells. While affecting the synthesis of DNA and regulation B12 also takes part in the metabolism of all cells in the body. This vitamin is crucial to fatty acid synthesis and energy production.
B complex
vitamins such as B12 and folate are needed for the normal formation of red blood cells,
cellular and tissue repair, and DNA synthesis. Deficiencies in B12 or folate reflect a
substantial lack of either or both of these crucial vitamins. Deficiencies in these
vitamins may take years to manifest in adults because the body stores a 3 to 5 year
supply of B12 and months worth of folate in the liver. Deficiencies in children will
be apparent much sooner because a sufficient supplyof both vitamins takes several years
to compile.
Deficiencies in these vitamins can lead to macrocytic anemia, which is notable by a lack of production of red blood cells and the decreased capability of carrying oxygen. Patients may become light headed, weak, and/or short of breath. B12 deficiencies can also result in neuropathy. Neuropathy is nerve damage that may result in tingling and/or numbness in a patients hands, feet, and mental changes that range from confusion and anxiety to dementia.