Nutri Herb

Health and Wellness Library:  Vitamin B12 (Cyanocobalamin                                                                                  or Cobalamin)

a look at the health benefits of Vitamin B12 and its role in human nutrition

Also Known as

Cyanocobalamin or Cobalamin

About Vitamin B12

Vitamin B-12 is a water soluble vitamin and is effective in very small dosages. Vitamin B-12 gets its name of cyanocobalamin from "cyano" meaning dark blue and "cobalamin" meaning cobalt-containing; it contains cobalt and is the only vitamin that contains essential mineral elements. It's not a typical vitamin, for it it is produced only by microorganisms and is found nearly exclusively in foods of animal origin. Vitamin B-12 is the only vitamin that the body stores in large amounts (mostly in the liver), and it is not easily absorbed because it has to bind with a protein called the intrinsic factor in the digestive process, before being carried and absorbed through the small intestine. Most people after the age of 50 have a limited ability to absorb Vitamin B-12, and as many as 10% of people over sixty are commonly deficient in this vitamin with devastating health effects: mental agility, heart disease, depression, and perhaps Alzheimer's. Vegetarians or people with low intakes of animal products are at the greatest risk for a deficiency of Vitamin B-12, as well as people with gastrointestinal disorders, ulcers, Crohn's disease, gout, chronic heartburn, and excessive alcohol drinkers.

Nutritional Role of Vitamin B12

Vitamin B-12 aids in the production of red blood cells, normal functioning of the nervous system, and helps to metabolize protein and fat. The coenzymes of Vitamin B-12 assist in the metabolism of fatty acids and amino acids that contribute to the formation and maintenance of the nerves, blood, and other cells. This vitamin is essential for cell replication and plays a critical role in the production of DNA and RNA.

Health Benefits of Vitamin B12 in Human Nutrition

• For regeneration of red blood cells and anemia


• For nervous system


• For depression and anxiety


• For nerve pain, numbness, and tingling


• For proper utilization of fats, carbohydrates, and protein


• For cardiovascular system


• For energy


• For mental agility, concentration, and memory


• For posssible help with multiple sclerosis and tinnitus


• For growth and development


• For appetite stiumulant


• For skin conditions like rosacea


• For immune system

Natural Sources of Vitamin B12

Liver, trout, beef, clams, crab, lamb, tuna, veal, hamburger, eggs, milk, yougurt, cottage cheese, American cheese, cheddar cheese, brewer's yeast, oysters, sardines, and organ meats

Usage Guidelines for Vitamin B12

RDA for Vitamin B-12 is 6 mcg a day for adults, but it is commonly recommended to take 5 mcgs - 100 mcgs per day. Excess Vitamin B-12 is excreted in the urine and there are no adverse effects known from a high intake of this vitamin. Deficiency symptoms include fatigue, depression, numbness and tingling in the extremeties, muscle weakness, confusion, and memory loss. Take with folic acid once a day.

Vitamin B12 Facts for Informational Purposes Only

Readers should not use this information for self-diagnosis or self-treatment, but should always consult a medical professional regarding any medical problems and before undertaking any major dietary changes. This information is not meant to be substituted for medical advice.