Vitamin B12 is part of the vitamin B complex, and lack of it affects our metabolism. Vitamin B12 is also important in helping to form red blood cells, which carry oxygen throughout the body, and in maintaining the nervous system.
Vitamins fall into two general categories. The first are called fat-soluble vitamins and include vitamins E and K, among others. These vitamins can be stored in the body and, in some cases, produced by the body, so deficiency is very rare. However, vitamin B12 is a water-soluble vitamin. While is can be stored in the liver, only small amounts can be stored this way, and it takes a long time to build up a store of Vitamin B12 in the liver. Therefore, a daily intake is very important.
Balanced Diet
As with most vitamins, the best way to get vitamin B12 into your body is through a balanced diet. If you eat a healthy, balanced diet, you will already be taking in all the Vitamin B12 you require. However, if you have special dietary needs or medical conditions, vitamin supplements may be needed. High levels of vitamin B12 can be found in eggs, poultry, beef, pork, shellfish, and dairy products, especially milk.
Deficiency
Extreme deficiency of Vitamin B12 is very rare. However, if you body cannot use vitamin B12 properly or absorb it from foods in the intestinal tract, you may need vitamin suppliments to help your body. Vegans are especially prone to this and should take vitamin supplements, since most of the vitamin B12 we get in our diets is found in meat. If you don’t get enough vitamin B12, you develop a condition known as pernicious anemia. Symptoms include numbness and tingling in your arms and legs, weakness, poor balance, and other neurological symptoms. If you are worried about developing pernicious anemia, you should talk to your doctor who will be able to advise you.
If you think you may need a Vitamin B12 supplement you can find a high quality one at Chemist Direct.

