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Importance of Vitamin B12: Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is an important nutrient for healthy body functions. It is a water-soluble vitamin obtained primarily from animal-based foods, such as meat, eggs, and dairy products. The body needs Vitamin B12 for many important functions and its deficiency can cause many problems in the body.
What is the need for Vitamin B12?
1. Formation of red blood cells
The biggest function of Vitamin B12 is to produce red blood cells in our body. These cells are responsible for supplying oxygen to the body. When there is a deficiency of B12 in the body, the formation of blood cells is affected and conditions like anemia can occur.
2. Support the nervous system
Vitamin B12 is also important for the proper functioning of our nervous system. It helps in the production of a substance called myelin, which acts as a protective shield around the nerves. Its deficiency can damage nerves, causing problems like tingling, numbness or weakness in hands and feet.
3. Formation of DNA and RNA
Vitamin B12 plays an important role in the formation of DNA and RNA in the body, which are essential for the division and growth of body cells. It also helps in regeneration of cells, especially in case of red blood cells and nerve cells.
4. Mental health
Vitamin B12 also keeps our mental health better, it keeps the mood good, does not cause depression or confusion and also improves memory.
What will happen due to deficiency of Vitamin B12?
If there is deficiency of Vitamin B12 in the body, it can have many bad effects. As-
1. Anemia
Low level of hemoglobin in the blood can cause problems like fatigue, weakness and difficulty in breathing.
2. Neurological problems
Tingling in the hands and feet, muscle weakness, and balance problems may occur.
3. Effect on brain functions:
Vitamin B12 deficiency can cause memory loss and decreased mental clarity.
4. Heart Disease:
Vitamin B12 deficiency can increase levels of a substance called homocysteine, which can cause heart disease.