Vitamin B12, or cobalamin, is an essential vitamin for the proper functioning of the human body. This vitamin helps support the nervous system by protecting nerve endings against damage from toxins. It is also necessary for the maintenance of red blood cell counts. Vitamin B12 is found primarily in animal products, such as pork, beef, fish, poultry, shellfish, eggs and milk, according to MayoClinic.com. You may experience several side effects if you have a vitamin B12 deficiency.
Fatigue
A lack of vitamin B12 in your diet may contribute to fatigue, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. This vitamin is responsible for the metabolism of fats, carbohydrates and proteins, all of which are necessary for energy. A lack of vitamin B12 may contribute to malabsorption of these nutrients, preventing your body from converting them into the energy you need to accomplish daily tasks.
Mood Disorders
Vitamin B12 deficiencies may contribute to the emergence of mood disorders, according to Dr. James Balch and Phyllis Balch, authors of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing." Because vitamin B12 helps protect the nervous system, low levels of this vitamin may promote feelings of anxiety and irritability. You may also experience depression or loss of mental focus if you do not include vitamin B12 in your diet.
Heart Disease
Vitamin B12, along with other B vitamins, regulates the body's production of an amino acid called homocysteine, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Your body may produce excessive amounts of this amino acid if you have a vitamin B12 deficiency. Elevated homocysteine levels are linked to heart diseases, such as coronary artery disease and stroke.
Neurological Damage
Permanent neurological damage may result from a lack of vitamin B12 in your diet, according to Balch and Balch. This may include damage to the nerve endings and degeneration of the spinal cord. Neurological damage can result in a variety of symptoms, including ringing in the ears, muscle twitches, numbness and vertigo.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Vitamin B12
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Vitamin B12 (cobalamin)
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; James F. Balch, M.D. and Phyllis A. Balch, C.N.C.; 1997
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