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Vitamin B12 is a member of the water-soluble B-complex group of vitamins. It is the only vitamin that contains essential mineral elements. B12 is a collective term for a group of cobalt-containing compounds called corrinoids. It includes the free vitamin cyanocobalamin and hydroxocobalamin and two active coenzymes 5-deoxyadenosylcobalamin and methylcobalamin. All B12 compounds are synthesized by bacteria, fungi or algae. The only reliable source of any substantial amounts of this vitamin for the needs of human body is found in animal proteins.

The vitamin by the action of HCL and pepsin, in gastric juices in the stomach, is released and about 50% will be eventually absorbed by adults with healthy gastric function. Several hours after ingestion vitamin B12 will found its way in the terminal portion of the small intestine, the ileum. The cells within the ileum absorb the vitamin and finally it is taken up by the liver, bone marrow and red blood cells. Its absorption from the gastrointestinal tract is poor unless the intrinsic factor a glycoprotein enzyme is present. It is important that the vitamin combines with calcium during absorption to be of benefit to the body.

The average requirement for vitamin B12 is based on the amount needed for maintenance of normal red cell status. For adults is 2.5 micrograms/day. Vegetarian diets are frequently low in Vitamin B12 and generally absorption decreases with age. Absorption can be also decreased in cases of achlorhydria-fall in gastric acid output, removal of ileum and stomach, small intestine bacteria overgrowth, absence of intrinsic factor, and pancreatic proteases, tapeworm infestation, antacids and anti-ulcer medications. No adverse effects are known with excess vitamin B12.

Vitamin B12 Requirements

Vitamin B12 is essential for the formation of normal red cells and proper nerve function. Symptoms of deficiency may take several years to appear. A deficiency usually begins with changes in the nervous system resulting in muscular soreness weakness in the legs and arms, jerking of limbs, brain damage with symptoms of needles and pins, numbness or stiffness. Deficiency also can manifest itself in mood disorders, difficulty in walking and a form of anemia called pernicious anemia. Infants’ breastfed by vegan mothers can develop deficiency accompanied by anemia and long term neurological problems. The best sources of B12 include meat-especially liver and kidneys, poultry, eggs and milk. Like all other B Vitamins if B12 is taken alone for long periods of time it may result in loses of other B vitamins such as Vitamin B6, Vitamin B9, Choline, etc.

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