Also known as cobalamin, this is essential for the synthesis of hemoglobin and development of cells, as well as to the condition of the nervous system.Cobalamin is a proprietary product of the metabolism of the organism and is non-consumable from plant because not present in any of them. If it can be found in animal sources, as already synthesized.
The lack of this vitamin is reflected directly in anemias with general weakness. Pernicious anemia is a genetic disease that can be considered and usually occurs in individuals of Saxon descent.
A group that is at constant risk of Vitamin B12 deficiency are total vegetarian or vegan.
Causes of cobalamin deficiency can be crohn's disease, gastric cancer, total gastrectomy, short intestines and as said the vegan diet.
The daily requirement of vitamin B12 in children is 1.2 mg and 2.5 ug (micrograms) in adults.
Vegetarians are advised to consume reinforced this vitamin.
extended definition
Functions of Vitamin B12
Foods with higher contribution - Top Sources
Deficiency - Consequences of lack
RDA
Toxicity - Hypervitaminosis
Recommended
extended definition
This vitamin belonging to the B complex was discovered in 1948. She is also known as cobalamin because their chemical structure found in cobalt. It is found in different forms being the most active hydroxocobalamin and cyanocobalamin. It is essential for our body to function well, since without this vitamin the body can not synthesize red blood cells. The nervous system, heart and brain do not develop well their duties, if cobalamin not at proper levels.
Vitamin B12 is stored in the liver (80%); the metabolism is using as the body needs, quantities are stored can meet our needs for a period of 3-5 years.
Cobalamin is obtained through protein foods of animal origin during the digestive process, to do the participation of enzymes of gastric juice and a component called intrinsic factor is necessary. When there is atrophic gastritis or intrinsic factor deficiency, a lack of this vitamin can appear. This usually occurs in people over 50 and affects 40% of people over 80 years.
functions:
Involved in the synthesis of DNA, RNA and proteins
Involved in the formation of red blood cells.
Maintains the myelin sheath of nerve cells
Involved in the synthesis of neurotransmitters
It is necessary in the processing of fatty acids into energy
Helps maintain muscle energy reserves
Involved in the proper functioning of the immune system
Necessary for the metabolism of folic acid.