B12 deficiency is no joke, and is a common consequence some people have to face. But what is it exactly and why does our body need it?
The most straightforward answer would be; it’s a bacteria in soil, that is needed for healthy nerves, red blood cells and building DNA.
The more elaborate answer would be; it’s created from microbes in soil that are connected to plant roots, and is needed for the formation of red blood cells, cell division, nerve structure and function and the maintenance of normal blood homocysteine levels, together with folate and vitamin B6 (raised levels are a risk factor in cardiovascular disease).
BUT, before you stop washing your vegetables, it’s not exactly the kind of dirt we would get from our vegetables that contain B12. While animals get their B12 by eating dirt, soil, bugs or feces, humans are more likely to get it from supplements, and even the cows, pigs, and chickens are fed B12 supplements as B12 fail to grow in chemically induced environments.
WHY DO YOU NEED IT?
Find yourself bloated? loss of appetite? unplanned weightloss? constipation? even a bit of pain in your abdomen?
It’s a clear sign that you’re not getting enough B12. The danger of not getting enough full list include;
- Fatigue and weakness
- Megaloblastic anemia
- Nerve problems; numbness or tingling in hands and feet
- Depression
- Confusion
- Dementia
- Disturbed vision
- Fuzzy memory
- Soreness of the mouth and tongue
- Shortness of breath
- Problems with balance, or dizziness
- Bloating
- Loss of appetite
- Unplanned weight-loss
- Constipation
- Pain in your abdomen
Vitamin B12 deficiency can have severe health consequences in the long-run if not treated early. If you suspect you may have B12 deficiency and are not taking B12 supplements, you should start. Experts recommend getting your blood tested for nutritional deficiencies at least once a year in order to help maintain good health.
HOW MUCH DO YOU NEED?
The recommended amount for an adult is 2.4 mcg for both men and women. Newborns, children and pregnant women, especially those breastfeeding are recommended a different amount.
Be very careful if you’re consuming seaweed and spirulina, or similar, as some of these types of foods stops the body from absorbing B12 effectively.