Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is a water-soluble vitamin that is necessary for the production of red blood cells, DNA synthesis, metabolism and maintaining healthy nerve cells. Vitamin B12 is naturally found in animal foods such as fish, eggs, milk, dairy products and red meat. B12 is also added to fortified breakfast cereals. Hypoglycemia is a condition characterized by low blood glucose levels. B12 and other B vitamins help prevent hypoglycemia.
Vitamin B12, Metabolism and Hypoglycemia
Vitamin B12 and other B complex vitamins are important for metabolizing carbohydrates, proteins and fats into glucose that can be utilized by the body. B complex vitamins help the body produce glucose, which is the body's main source of energy from consumed foods. Increasing intake of foods rich in B12 and other B vitamins leads to increased energy levels and reduced risks for hypoglycemia.
Vitamin B12 Administration
Vitamin B12 is available as oral tablets, injections, sublingual tablets and nasal gel. The oral tablets should be taken with meals. Sublingual tablets should be placed under the tongue until they dissolve into the bloodstream. B12 nasal gel is applied into each nostril. B12 injections are administered as deep intramuscular injections in muscles such as deltoid, ventrogluteal and dorsogluteal. Vitamin B12 shots are absorbed immediately into the bloodstream. B12 oral tablets take longer to be absorbed because they have to go through the digestion process.
Side Effects of Vitamin B12
Patients who receive vitamin B12 supplements may experience common symptoms such as diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, headache, joint pain, numbness and tingling. Some patients may also experience adverse symptoms such as severe allergic reactions, heart failure, blood clots and blood disorder known as polycythemia vera. Patients with known hypersensitivity to cobalt and other ingredients of B12 supplements should avoid taking the supplements. A patient with a prior history of cardiovascular problems should consult her doctor before taking B12.
Symptoms of Hypoglycemia
Patients with low blood glucose levels experience symptoms such as hunger, sweating, confusion, anxiety, confusion, blurred vision, double vision, seizures, loss of consciousness, heart palpitations and tremors. Hypoglycemia is dangerous and should be treated immediately. Patients at high risk for hypoglycemia such as diabetics should measure their blood sugar levels frequently and avoid going for long periods without having meals.
