Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is an essential water-soluble vitamin that you must obtain through diet or supplements. It’s found naturally in animal products and has many roles in your body. It supports the normal function of your nerve cells and is needed for red blood cell formation and DNA synthesis.
Vitamin B12 may benefit your body in impressive ways, such as boosting your energy, improving your memory and weight loss, to name a few.
Vitamin B12 deficiency can occur in one of two ways. Either your diet lacks adequate amounts of it or your body is unable to fully absorb it from the food you eat.
A few risk factors that can increase your chance of developing a Vitamin B12 deficiency are:
Older adults
People on a strict vegan diet
People with gastrointestinal disorders, such as Crohn’s disease or celiac disease
Those who have had gastrointestinal surgeries
Certain prescription medications, including antacids and some Type 2 diabetes drugs
Getting enough Vitamin B12 through your diet is crucial. However, if you struggle to obtain enough or have a condition that affects absorption, supplements are a simple way to increase your B12 intake.
