Vitamin B12 is essential for our health, especially for our nervous system, immune system, and DNA formation. Symptoms of a vitamin B12 deficiency can vary from person to person.
Facts about Vitamin B12
1. Vitamin B12 is found only in animal foods.
- We find vitamin B12 in our diet mainly in (red) meat, eggs, cheese, and milk. You can see that most vitamin B12 is found in animal products. It is more common for people with a vegetarian or vegan lifestyle to have a deficiency.
2. Optimal digestion is important for vitamin B12 absorption.
- To absorb vitamin B12 from food, it is important that your digestion functions properly. You need sufficient stomach acid, which allows vitamin B12 to bind to 'intrinsic factor,' enabling its absorption into our bloodstream in the small intestine. If you have too little or too much stomach acid, absorption from food is not optimal. In people experiencing stress, there is often insufficient stomach acid production, which can hinder B12 absorption.
3. Medications can increase the risk of vitamin B12 deficiency.
- This includes antacids or metformin.
4. Vitamin B12 supports the nervous system.
- Important for the production of red blood cells, which are essential for transporting oxygen in your blood.
Disclaimer: If you have been experiencing chronic symptoms as mentioned above for an extended period, always have them checked by a doctor first.
What is important when choosing a B12 supplement?
Choose a B12 supplement that is absorbed through the oral mucosa, such as a sublingual tablet. Because the supplement is absorbed directly through the oral mucosa, you ensure that your stomach/intestines are bypassed in the absorption process. This ensures that B12 enters your bloodstream.
