Vitamin B12: Vital for health – avoid deficiency!

Vitamin B12: Vital for health – avoid deficiency!

Vitamin B12 is an essential vitamin that performs many important functions in the human body. It is crucial for the formation of red blood cells and DNA synthesis, plays a central role in the nervous system and supports the regeneration of nerve cells. A deficiency of vitamin B12 can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, shortness of breath and nervousness, highlighting the importance of this vitamin.

It belongs to the group of cobalamins, which are characteristic for their red color. According to the Society for Applied Vitamin Research, vitamin B12 is actually the most complex vitamin and plays an important role in many biological processes. In addition to blood formation and DNA synthesis, these also include the breakdown of homocysteine ​​in the blood, an amino acid that in high concentrations can increase the risk of serious health problems such as heart attacks and strokes.

How is vitamin B12 absorbed?

The special thing about vitamin B12 is that the body can store it, but cannot produce it itself. The human body has the ability to store up to 2.5 milligrams of vitamin B12. In contrast, the recommended daily requirement is around 4 micrograms. This means that a deficiency is often only noticed when the storage is exhausted. Vitamin B12 is found almost exclusively in animal products, which is why a purely plant-based diet significantly increases the risk of deficiency.

Vegans in particular should pay attention to their vitamin B12 intake and take nutritional supplements if necessary. People with certain stomach or intestinal diseases may also be affected. According to an article by the German Nutrition Society, it is important to find alternative sources or preparations to meet daily needs. These supplements can help increase vitamin B12 levels in the blood.

Effects and scientific confirmations

The European Food Safety Authority has already scientifically confirmed many positive effects of vitamin B12. These include, among other things, promoting normal energy metabolism, supporting the nervous system and playing an important role in the formation of red blood cells. The vitamin also contributes to the reduction of fatigue and the normal functions of the immune system.

While most people can get enough vitamin B12 from a balanced diet, certain groups, such as vegetarians or people with specific health problems, are at increased risk of deficiency. The article from medizin-transparent.at emphasizes that deficiencies should be counteracted at an early stage.

However, it should be noted that there may be health risks when taking excessive amounts of vitamin B12, especially in the form of dietary supplements. Studies by the German Cancer Research Center have shown that long-term high doses could increase the risk of lung cancer in men. Caution should therefore be exercised as balanced and controlled intake is the key to optimal health.

Vitamin B12 poses a particular challenge for people who follow a vegan diet or have difficulty absorbing the vitamin. It is therefore important to be aware of the need for additional intake and, if necessary, to seek medical advice regarding dietary supplements. More information on these topics is available at www.augsburger- Allgemeine.de to find.