Vitamin B12 is one of eight vitamins known as B complex. It is naturally present in animal foods such as meats, fish, eggs, milk and milk products. Your generally get enough B12 from your diet unless you restrict all animal products. B12 prevents anemia by helping your body produce red blood cells, supports neurological function and mental health, synthesizes DNA and serves as a co-factor in nutrient conversion.
Red Blood Cells
Vitamin B12 and folic acid are critical in red blood formation. Red blood cells, or RBCs, are the most abundant blood cells in your body. They transport oxygen from your lungs to your organs and tissues and deliver carbon dioxide to your lungs for release. RBCs contain hemoglobin, a protein that stores iron, an essential mineral that supports oxygen delivery.
Homocysteine Conversion
Protein is made of amino acid chains. Homocysteine is an amino acid that is not generally harmful unless elevated. However, elevated homocysteine levels are associated with cardiovascular disease and dementia. Methylcobalamin -- an active form of B12 serves as a co-factor in homocysteine conversion. Your body uses methylcobalamin, B6 and folic acid to convert homocysteine to beneficial substances, such as cysteine, another amino acid. This conversion helps prevent elevated homocysteine levels. Naturally, B12 deficiency results in elevated homocysteine.
Neurological Function
B12 supports proper neurological function. Your neurological system is similar to the central processing unit of your home computer. This complex communication system is composed of your central nervous system and peripheral nervous system. These two systems send messages to and from your brain, spinal cord and the rest of your nervous system. Neurological health is critical for proper sensory communication and cognitive function. Vitamin B12 deficiency causes neurological problems, such as improper neurological communication.
Carbohydrate Metabolism
Vitamin B12 is needed for energy production. It helps your body turn food into fuel. Glucose is your body's primary fuel source. When you eat carbohydrates, such as vegetables, fruits, beans and grains, B12 helps your body convert them to glucose to fuel your body. For this reason, B12 is known as an energy vitamin. Fatigue is a common B12 deficiency symptom.
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