Is vitamin B12 necessary to humans?

Yes, vitamin B12 is absolutely necessary for humans. It's an essential nutrient that plays a crucial role in many bodily functions.

Key Functions of Vitamin B12:

• Nervous System Function: B12 is vital for the health of your nervous system. It helps maintain the myelin sheath, a protective layer around nerve fibers, and supports the production of neurotransmitters that enable communication between nerve cells. Deficiency can lead to nerve damage, tingling, numbness, and even neurological disorders.
• Red Blood Cell Formation: B12 is essential for the production of red blood cells, which carry oxygen throughout your body. Deficiency can lead to a type of anemia called megaloblastic anemia, characterized by large, abnormal red blood cells. This can cause fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath.
• DNA Synthesis and Cell Repair: B12 is involved in DNA synthesis and cell repair. Deficiency can impair these processes and potentially increase the risk of certain cancers.

Other Potential Benefits:

• May help improve mood and reduce the risk of depression.
• May contribute to cognitive function and memory.
• May play a role in healthy bone metabolism.

Symptoms of Vitamin B12 Deficiency:

Deficiency can develop gradually and cause a variety of symptoms, including:

• Fatigue and weakness
• Tingling or numbness in the hands and feet
• Difficulty maintaining balance
• Anemia (pale skin, shortness of breath)
• Mouth ulcers
• Glossitis (inflamed, smooth tongue)
• Vision problems
• Mood swings and depression
• Memory problems

People at Risk for Deficiency:

• Non -Vegetarians ,vegetarians and vegans, anyone can be deficient because b12 absorb in the gut,if gut gut health is not good then anyone can deficient .
• People with digestive disorders that affect B12 absorption, such as Crohn's disease or celiac disease.
• Older adults, as B12 absorption can decline with age.

Getting Enough Vitamin B12:

• Dietary Sources:Fermented food like fermented millets, sauerkraut .
• Fortified Foods: Some breakfast cereals, plant-based milks, and nutritional yeasts are fortified with B12.
• Remember:
• Vitamin B12 is essential for maintaining a healthy nervous system, producing red blood cells, and supporting other vital bodily functions.
• Deficiency can lead to various health problems. If you're concerned about your B12 levels, consult your doctor for a blood test and personalized advice.
• Maintaining a balanced diet with fruits rich, fermented food like kimchi, sauerkraut and fermented millets , your body will automatically produce b12.
• If gut is healthy, absorption is healthy !