Did you know that our bodies don’t naturally produce vitamin B12? We have to get our full necessary intake from external sources like fish, meat, and dairy. Since B12 comes primarily from animal-based products, those who follow a vegetarian or vegan diet are likely to be B12 deficient and require a supplement.
As we age, vitamin B12 also becomes harder to absorb. Low levels of B12 inhibit healthy blood cell production. This can lead to negative effects on the body, such as anemia, mood changes, jaundiced skin, dizziness, fatigue, and more.
In this article, we’ll discuss 3 surprising vitamin B12 benefits you might not be aware of, and how to ensure your body is getting enough.
1. Vitamin B12 is Good for the Heart
Among the major B12 benefits is the overall positive impact on heart health. Since it is water-soluble, it can break apart in water, enter the blood, and travel through the cardiovascular system this way.
Research shows that B12 assists in decreasing homocysteine, a protein that accumulates and damages arterial walls. This is one of the major factors behind heart disease.
2. Healthy Skin, Nails, and Hair
Vitamin B12 plays a large role in cell production. If b12 levels are low, hyperpigmentation, nail discoloration, and vitiligo can occur. It can even lead to premature gray hair, which none of us want!
Maintaining adequate levels of B12 helps to promote a healthy glow as nutrients can reach the skin more easily. It aids in the reproduction of tissue cells that are responsible for healthy skin, hair, and nails.
3. A Natural Mood and Energy Booster
From a biological perspective, B12 is needed to convert carbohydrates into glucose. This, in turn, reduces fatigue and keeps you feeling alert and energized.
B12 supplements have been found to help improve symptoms of depression in those with a vitamin B12 deficiency. This is likely a result of its role in the production and metabolizing serotonin, a chemical in the brain responsible for regulating mood.
How to Obtain Vitamin B12 Benefits For Yourself
B12 shots and pills are easily accessible and can help ensure you are maintaining adequate levels of B12 in your body. Both methods are effective but are chosen for different reasons.
B12 shots must be administered intramuscularly by a doctor. This is often the best option for those with a severe, diagnosed B12 deficiency because the injection is highly concentrated and quickly absorbed.
Vitamin B12 in pill form is popular for its ease. No appointment is required and pills are available over the counter. It’s a good idea to talk with a doctor or nutritionist to help determine the dosage that is right for you.
Don’t Underestimate the Importance of B12
Vitamin B12 benefits cell production and overall health in many ways. Since it is not produced by our bodies, we often must look to supplements to maintain an adequate intake.
We hope this article has given you a bit more understanding of this often-overlooked vitamin and how it is essential to a healthy body.
Stay tuned to the health category of our blog for more informative articles like this.
