VitaminB12 is a water soluble vitamin that plays an important role in the formation of red blood cells as well as proper functioning of the nervous system.
VitaminB12 is also needed to absorb folic acid. VitaminB12 is a bacteria produced by micro-organisms. Deficiency of B12 is much more wide spread than we thought.
Sources: Vitamin B12 is found more in animal food and products I.e. Meat, poultry, fish, seafood, eggs, dairy products etc. in non animal products it is present in some good quality breakfast cereals, soy milk, energy bars, drink mixes and some good quality yeast.
Reason: VitaminB12 can be found deficient either through poor intake or due to poor absorption. Proper absorption of vitaminB12 do not take place in case of poor digestion, removal of the small bowel, excessive alcohol intake, increased antibacterial doses, intake of hormonal contraception and increased nicotine levels.
Symptoms: Symptoms of Vitamin B 12 deficiency can be anemia, Gastrointestinal problems, mental disorder, fatigue, depression, memory loss etc.Since a major source of VitaminB12 is animal food, it’s been taken as vegans are more prone to this deficiency.
Myth: VitaminB12 deficiency is more widespread in Vegans and Vegetarians. But, it’s not true. Many vegetarians and vegans still take antibiotic food such as onion, garlic, strong radishes, mustard oil rich foods which all helps in producing Vitamin B12.
Irony: A lot of non vegetarians are found deficit of VitaminB12, guess why? Yes! It takes place due to poor absorption of VitaminB12, which mainly occurs due to lifestyle disorders.
Supplementation: VitaminB12 can be supplemented back through intake of oral pills, liquids , fluid injections into muscle tissues and permanent injections. Excessive potassium doses also helps in absorption of VitaminB12.