As we age, our bodies require different nutrients, including different amounts of vitamins and minerals. Vitamin B-12 plays an important role in maintaining good health, aiding in the production of red blood cells and maintaining the central nervous system. While people need B-12 throughout life, the amount you need changes as you age.
Young Children
The United States Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Board recommends that young children obtain a certain amount of B-12 based on age. An infant up to age 6 months needs 0.4 micrograms per day, while those from 6 months to 1-year-old need .5 micrograms per day. Children from ages 1 to 3 need .9 micrograms of vitamin B-12 per day, while those ages 4 to 8 need 1.2 micrograms per day.
Adults
The older you get, the more B-12 you need. The USDA recommends that both makes and females ages 9 to 13 need 1.8 micrograms of B-12 per day, while those over the age of 13 need 2.4 micrograms per day. Pregnant women have slightly higher required levels of B-12 -- 2.6 micrograms per day while pregnant and 2.8 micrograms per day while lactating.
Deficiencies
Those who do not get enough vitamin B-12 can experience health problems due to vitamin deficiency. A B-12 deficiency can lead to anemia, numbness in the extremities, weakness or fatigue and even loss of balance.
Sources
Vitamin B-12 comes mostly from animal products such as shellfish, dairy products and meat. Because of this, those who do not eat animal products, such as vegans or vegetarians, are sometimes more prone to B-12 deficiencies. B-12 supplements, either in the form of vitamins or other supplements, can replace the natural sources of B-12. Unlike many other water-soluble vitamins, the body can store B-12 in the liver for several years.
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