Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is part of the B group of vitamins. B vitamins are responsible for turning carbohydrates into glucose for your body, as well as keeping your hair, eyes and liver healthy. Although vitamin B12 provides your body with many benefits, overdoses and even normal side-effects can be potentially dangerous.
Pernicious Anemia
Pernicious anemia can occur when your stomach cells are not able to make intrinsic factor, a protein produced by cells in the stomach lining that is needed for your intestines to properly absorb vitamin B12. Symptoms of this condition can include weight loss, pale skin, memory loss, confusion and loss of balance. Vitamin B12 supplements or injections are usually prescribed to help treat pernicious anemia. The University of Maryland Medical Center says that this kind of anemia is very dangerous, and should always be treated by a doctor.
Breast Cancer Prevention
While there is no direct evidence that vitamin B12 alone can help to reduce the risk of breast cancer, population studies have shown that women who have low amounts of folate in their body may be prone to suffering from breast cancer. Vitamin B12 may work with folate to help reduce the risk of breast cancer, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Dangers
Avoid vitamin B12 supplements if you are allergic to cobalt or cobalamin, according to MayoClinic.com. Vitamin B12, in combination with pyridoxine, also known as vitamin B6, has been known to cause itching and transtory exanthema, which is a widespread rash. The University of Maryland Medical Center says that vitamin B12 is considered a safe vitamin, but can interact with other medications. If you are taking any medicine, consume vitamin B12 only under the supervision of a health care professional.
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