Vitamin B12 is an essential water-soluble nutrient, also known as cobalamin. It plays a vital role in the healthy functioning of many systems in the body, including:
- DNA (genetic material) synthesis
- Energy production (metabolism)
- Neurological (brain) function
- Nerve cell health
- Red blood cell (hemoglobin) formation
Vitamin B12 plays a key role in the normal functioning of the brain and nervous system. It’s also important in the formation of red blood cells. A lack of B12 can lead to anemia (not having enough red blood cells), causing you to feel tired and weak.
VITAMIN B 12
Chemically, vitamin B12 can exist in various forms, but all of them contain the mineral cobalt. The liver can store the vitamin for a long time, so it may take a few years for deficiency and symptoms to develop. Some common signs and symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency include:
- Difficulties with maintaining balance
- Fatigue, lethargy or feeling faint
- Feeling of pins and needles
- Headache or irritability
- Mouth sores
- Reduced cognitive function (memory or comprehension issues)
- Sore and swollen tongue (may appear pale yellow or red)
- Vision changes