We’re frequently asked in our comment section about: what are vitamin b12 benefits. Truth is we’ve been delaying this article for a while until we had enough information & facts to allow us to enlighten our readers.
2. May Prevent Major Birth Defects
Adequate vitamin B12 levels are crucial to a healthy pregnancy. Vitamin B12 deficiency in the beginning stages of pregnancy may increase the risk of birth defects, such as neural tube defects. Summary Appropriate vitamin B12 levels are key to a healthy pregnancy.
They’re important for the prevention of brain and spinal cord birth defects.
Health Benefits
Depression Prevention and Treatment
Vitamin B12 plays a role in serotonin production, so a deficiency may be connected with clinical depression. In one study of 5,000 women age 40 and up, those who took supplements of vitamins B12, B6, and folic acid had 34% fewer cases of macular degeneration after seven years than a placebo group.
Their risk of severe degeneration was 41% lower. Pregnancy Health
If a woman has a vitamin B12 deficiency in the early stages of pregnancy, her child is at an increased risk of neural tube birth defects and low birthweight. Mothers with low B12 levels are also more likely to miscarry or give birth prematurely.
Women with low levels of vitamin B12 are three times more likely to have a child with birth defects. Brain Health
Vitamin B12 is an essential nutrient for the neurons in the brain. Brain atrophy, which refers to the loss of neurons in the brain, is associated with memory loss and dementia.
In one randomized trial, older adults with early-stage dementia who were given vitamin B12 supplements to lower their blood homocysteine levels demonstrated a slower rate of cognitive and clinical decline.
How Much Vitamin B12 Do I Need?
Where Can I Get B12?
“The best food sources [of B12] are meat, poultry, eggs, dairy, fish, and fortified cereals,” says Wong. Medical conditions may also require a person to seek out additional amounts of the vitamin. Your small intestine helps absorb B12 with help from a substance secreted by the stomach known as intrinsic factor.
People with Crohn’s Disease, or complications due to intestine shortening from surgeries are often at risk of vitamin B12 deficiency, says Graber. These symptoms include headaches, anxiety, and nausea. Therefore, always consult your doctor before starting a new supplement or diet.
Contents
This section has information on: thiamin (vitamin B1)
riboflavin (vitamin B2)
niacin (vitamin B3)
pantothenic acid
vitamin B6
biotin (vitamin B7)
folate and folic acid
vitamin B.