Vitamin B12 is a water-soluble vitamin that’s vital for the proper functioning of the human body. It naturally occurs in animal tissue like meat, fish, poultry, and eggs. A deficiency of this vitamin can lead to irreversible health problems.
Here are some benefits:
1. Helps to produce healthy and red blood cells, as well as DNA
B12 is vital for the formation of blood cells and their production. Hence, we must receive a sufficient amount of it in our diet. This is carried out by consuming meat, fish, poultry, and eggs. As a result of this, vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to poor red blood cell production and anemia. It can also cause fatigue, weakness, and even neurological problems.
2. Works as an antioxidant
Antioxidants are extremely important in counteracting the damage caused by harmful compounds like free radicals throughout the body, especially within the nervous system where vitamin B12 helps protect cells from degeneration and disease. The reason why this vitamin is so important in this regard is that it can easily cross the blood-brain barrier, which enables it to take part in the process of energy production.
3. May help to prevent Alzheimer’s disease
It has been recently proven that getting a sufficient amount of vitamin B12 may lead to a reduction in the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. The reason for this is that the vitamin is vital for the production and maintenance of nervous system cells. Thus, it helps prevent memory loss and dementia.
4. Helps to maintain a healthy digestive system
B12 is essential for enzymes to function properly within the digestive tract, where it helps to break down food products and absorb their nutrients into our bloodstream. The nutrient also helps prevent bacteria from sticking to the walls of our intestines, which can cause us to experience gas, bloating, and other digestive problems.
Thus, it is very important to know that we should consume sufficient amounts of vitamin B12 to remain healthy. The only way for us to do so is to consume animal products and not just avoid them.
