What’s Vitamin B12, and why is it important?
Vitamin B12 is an essential nutrient which helps with multiple processes in the body, including the formation of DNA, red blood cell production, energy regulation and supports overall cognitive brain function. While this vitamin is responsible for various metabolic functions, we cannot produce our own therefore we must get this from another source.
It can only be found naturally in animal meat and animal products, these are inclusive of:
- Animal liver
- Fish such as salmon, trout, cod and tuna
- Beef and poultry
- Eggs and dairy products
For those who participate in a vegan or vegetarian diet, sources can include:
- Fortified products such as nutritional yeast, plant based milks, plant based yogurts, yeast spreads (e.g vegemite) and cereals.
- Seaweed
- Tempeh
- Plant based meats
If our daily needs of this nutrient are not met, we can become deficient, thus negatively impacting the metabolic processes previously discussed. Symptoms of Vitamin B12 deficiencies:
- Fever or profusive sweating
- Pale, clammy skin
- Fatigue or blurred vision
- Depression or severe mood swings
- Declined cognitive function including memory loss or confusion
- Tingling and numbness of hands and feet
- Nerve damage
Those who are most at risk:
- Those who practice a vegan or vegetarian diet
- Elderly persons
- People with severe health conditions such as Coeliac Disease
Supplementation is also another avenue to look at if you suspect you may have a deficiency in Vitamin B12. If you are after advice or would like more information on Vitamin B12, call 08 9494 3790 or book online at http://hardynutrition.com.au/online-booking.html to see one of our friendly Dietitians!
