Vitamin B12

Otherwise known as cyanocobalamin, Vitamin B12 is one of the vitamins that are essential to maintaining a healthy body, being involved in many bodily processes and functions.

Vitamin B12 is involved in maintaining the brain and nervous system, as well as being involved in the processes  which convert the carbohydrates, fats and proteins from food into energy. B12 also helps keep red blood cells healthy and therefore aids in preventing heart disease, as well as keeping the immune system functioning at its maximum level. In addition, B12 is used to create the protective covering of all nerve cells in the body.

The most important function of 12 b is to form healthy red blood cells. However, all cells need B12 to keep them healthy. It is the white blood cells, amongst others, that need Vitamin B12 to help ensure that the immune system is functioning properly. All of the nerve cells in the body also need vitamin B12 to help form their protective fatty layer. This is essential for all of the nerves but is especially so for those in the brain. If there is not sufficient B12 to create this protective layer then the brain will not be functioning properly.

Interestingly, the amount of B12 that the body needs is relatively small but is needed on a regular basis. Like many vitamins and minerals, Vitamin B12 is not used alone, and in fact the body cannot absorb it easily. B12 cannot be created by either plants or animals and in fact can only be created by bacteria. Humans get their essential B12 from foods such as liver, eggs, fish and meat. While most meat-eaters will find they more than meet their daily needs for vitamin B12, strict vegetarians or vegans may require vitamin B12 supplements.

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