3 Important Benefits of Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12 is an essential vitamin that we are unable to make ourselves. That is, our bodies are not capable of synthesizing this particular molecule. We have to get all the B12 we need from the food we eat. Vitamin B12 is a common vitamin people are deficient in, especially in the vegetarian and vegan communities since B12 is primarily found in animal products like meat, dairy, and eggs. The elderly population is also prone to deficiencies of the B-complex vitamins, including B12. Supplementation is vital for those who do not eat animal products regularly. Generally, it is also needed for the elderly and for those with absorption issues; this includes most people after bariatric surgery.
But why do we need vitamin B12? Well, let’s talk about 3 of the most important benefits of B12!
RED BLOOD CELL PRODUCTION
Vitamin B12 plays a big role in the ability of your body’s ability to produce red blood cells. When vitamin B12 levels are too low red blood cell development can go a bit wonky and cause the cells to develop in a larger and misshapen way. This is a type of anemia called ‘megaloblastic anemia’ which occurs when red blood cells are unable to properly flow into the bloodstream from the bone marrow at an appropriate rate.
Anemia causes a lack of oxygen in the blood which can lead to fatigue and weakness. B12 is also quite important for DnA synthesis. This can impair the metabolism of folate and also impair oxygen delivery through reduced normal red blood cell production.
PREVENT NEURON LOSS
Vitamin B12 deficiency has been linked to memory loss in older adults. It is thought that B12 can assist in preventing or delaying brain atrophy associated with dementia. A study looking at participants with early-stage dementia found that B12 was able to slow down mental decline. Vitamin B12 is believed to help us maintain brain neuron health to prevent mental decline and improve cognitive function even in those without a diagnosed B12 deficiency.
Poor B12 status is also associated with worse sensory and motor function. This becomes particularly important as we age. Poor peripheral nerve function can result in weakness, loss of bone density and loss of physical performance. B12 deficiency is associated with depression as well.
ENERGY BOOST
While B12 does not directly give the body energy, it and other B vitamins assist the body in generating more energy. Through the process of gluconeogenesis, B12 helps break down proteins, fats, and carbohydrates into the more usable compound, glucose. Glucose is then converted into energy in the form of ATP (adenosine triphosphate). This process takes place inside the mitochondria. B12 is particularly important for the oxidation of odd-chain fatty acids and the catabolism of some amino acids.
There has been no evidence increased energy will occur in those who do not have a B12 deficiency.
So, Juice or Supplements?
Boost mitochondrial function, fight fatigue, and support healthy brain function by adding our Daily B-Complex Gummy. This gummy contains all 8 vital B-vitamins, schisandra berry, and elderberry.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Dr. Meredith Warner is the creator of Well Theory and The Healing Sole. She is a board-certified Orthopedic Surgeon and Air Force Veteran.
She is on a mission to disrupt traditional medicine practices and promote betterment physically, spiritually and mentally to many more people. She advocates for wellness and functional health over big pharma so more people can age vibrantly with more function and less pain.
At Well Theory, Our surgeon-designed products are FDA Registered and formulated to help people:
- Manage the symptoms of musculoskeletal pain
- Recover vibrantly from orthopedic related surgeries
- Fill the gaps in our daily diets
- Manage pain associated with inflammation