Vitamin B12

The first symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency are memory loss, loss of appetite, feelings of anxiety and confusion, high blood pressure or even a weakened digestive system.

Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, plays several crucial roles in the human body, the main ones being:

• Red blood cell formation: It is essential for the production of healthy red blood cells.
• Nervous system function: This vitamin is vital for maintaining the myelin sheath that surrounds and protects nerves.
• Cell division: It is involved in DNA synthesis and cell division. This is especially important during periods of rapid growth, such as during pregnancy and childhood.
• Energy metabolism: Although vitamin B12 does not directly provide energy, it plays a key role in cell metabolism, helping to convert food into energy that can be used by the body.

Food sources rich in vitamin B12 mainly include animal products such as meat, fish, eggs and dairy products. Meats, especially beef, chicken, lamb and pork, contain vitamin B12, as do fish such as salmon and tuna. Eggs and dairy products, such as milk, cheese and yogurt, are also options for those who include animal products in their diet.

For people following a vegan diet, it may be necessary to rely on vitamin B12 supplements or fortified foods, such as fortified cereals or plant-based drinks, to fill this gap in the daily diet.

Active forms of vitamin B12:

• Methylcobalamin: most active form mainly used in the liver, brain and nervous system.
• Adenosylcobalamin: active form in mitochondria, the energy centers of cells. It participates in the conversion of fatty acids and amino acids into energy. It is mainly found in liver tissues.
• Cyanocobalamin: A synthetic form of vitamin B12, it is often used in dietary supplements due to its stability. In the body, it is converted to Methylcobalamin and Adenosylcobalamin to become biologically active.
• Hydroxocobalamin: Acts as a precursor to methylcobalamin and a-Adenosylcobalamin. It is sometimes used in the treatment of vitamin B12 deficiencies. It is converted to methylcobalamin and a-Adenosylcobalamin in the body.

Taking a vitamin B12 course can be beneficial in several situations, including:

• For vegetarian or vegan diets: Food sources of vitamin B12 are found mainly in foods of animal origin.
• In case of reduced absorption: certain medical conditions or taking certain medications can reduce the body's absorption of vitamin B12. In these situations, it is imperative to be accompanied by your doctor who is the only one able to take care of you and determine the dose of vitamin B12 to take.
• Due to age: The body may become less efficient at absorbing vitamin B12 from foods.
• In case of pregnancy and breastfeeding: Vitamin B12 requirements increase during pregnancy and breastfeeding to support the normal development of the baby.
• If there are signs of deficiency: Symptoms of B12 deficiency may include fatigue, weakness, impaired psychological functions, an underactive immune system, and weak red blood cells.

The recommended duration of treatment is 3 to 4 months. In case of vitamin B12 deficiency, you will notice the first benefits after 1 month.

Vitamin B12 can be taken at any time of the day.