Vitamin B12 is an essential water-soluble vitamin found in a variety of foods like shellfish, meat and dairy products. Vitamin manufacturers frequently add vitamin B12 in combination with other B vitamins as part of the vitamin B complex. The body needs vitamin B12 for healthy red blood cell formation, neurological function and DNA synthesis.
At-Risk Population
Vitamin B12 deficiency is rare because the human body usually stockpiles it to last for several years. Older men and women, however, are at greatest risk for a deficiency. This is because many suffer from atrophic gastritis, a condition that causes difficulty absorbing vitamin B12 from food as well as oral supplements. A many as 10 to 30 percent of older adults suffer from this condition, and doctors treat many of these patients with vitamin B12 injections.
Deficiency Symptoms
Even low levels of vitamin B12 can cause weakness, fatigue and depression according to the website Family Doctor. Dementia symptoms mimicking those of Alzheimer's disease are also possible. Older women in particular are most vulnerable to these symptoms, particularly if they take certain medications, do not eat enough meat or have underlying health conditions.
Menopausal Symptom Relief
During perimenopause, the period just prior to menopause, many women experience abrupt hormonal fluctuations that can affect mood and behavior. Together with somatic symptoms associated with perimenopause like night sweats and sleep disturbances, these hormonal changes can lead to depression. A vitamin B complex supplement containing B12 can help with symptom management during menopause, according to M. Sophia Compton, an herbalist and health educator for Shareguide. Vitamin B12 in particular can help improve some of the mental health symptoms associated with menopause.
Recommended Daily Amount
According to the Office of Dietary Supplements, once you reach the age of 14 you do not need to take more than 2.4 mcg a day of vitamin B12. Older women do not require more than younger women or men.
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