According to MayoClinic.com, vitamin B12, or cyanocobalaminum, is an essential water-soluble vitamin. Vitamin B12 is found in many protein-rich foods such as meat, shellfish and dairy products. MayoClinic.com reports that the recommended daily allowance is 2.4 mcg day for adults. It can be administered orally as a liquid supplement and has several benefits.
Reduced Risk of Heart Disease
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, people with elevated levels of homocysteine are 1.7 times more likely to develop heart disease and 2.5 times more likely to have a stroke than if they had normal levels of homocysteine. Vitamin B12 can reduce your levels of homocysteine. Although the American Heart Association reports that adequate levels of B12 can be obtained from food, supplementation may be required if you have a family history of heart disease.
Lessened Chance of Breast Cancer
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, there is no evidence that vitamin B12 alone can prevent breast cancer. The center notes that population studies show that females who get more folate in their diets have a decreased incidence of breast cancer. Vitamin B12 and folate work together in your body and may lower your risk even further.
Help With Pernicious Anemia
According to the National Institutes of Health, pernicious anemia is a condition that occurs when the body cannot absorb vitamin B12 in the stomach and your red blood cell count is lowered. NIH reports that doctors usually suggest vitamin B12 supplements for patients with this condition. High dosages of vitamin B12 are usually recommended for patients to compensate for the amount they are unable to absorb.
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