Vitamin B12 has many benefits for humans. It is one of the essential vitamins that maintain the body’s health and the proper functioning of its organs. While adequate doses of vitamin B12 build the cells and tissues of the body, its shortage leads to numerous diseases, especially nerve-related problems.
Read – Vitamins: Their Functions and Sources
It is a water-soluble vitamin that is absorbed in the lower part of the small intestine. The vitamin is stored in the liver and then distributed to the rest of the body.
Let’s try to discover some of the various benefits of Vitamin B12.
Benefits of Vitamin B12 for the body
Benefits for the nervous system
B12 maintains the health of the brain and nervous system while also aiding in the prevention of strokes. It also works to build red blood cells that have an essential role in transporting hemoglobin to all parts of the body.
Furthermore, the vitamin protects the thin film covering the nerves and thus works to transfer nerve impulses quickly. It also converts food into energy, helping with proper digestion.
Additionally, it helps to keep children growing naturally and can prevent blood clots. It also protects against anemia. The vitamin also preserves brain tissue from the risk of the accumulation of the hormone homocysteine. It controls levels of the hormone in the brain, thus protecting against cognitive decline.
Benefits for the skin
Vitamin B12 maintains the health of the skin and gives it freshness and softness. It also helps to prevent acne and fights the signs of premature aging like fine lines and wrinkles.
Helping keep the skin safe from pallor; it heals wounds quickly. The vitamin is useful in treating eczema and helps protect against dehydration. It also protects against UV rays and contributes to skin cancer prevention.
Read – The 12 Best Foods for Healthy Skin
Benefits for pregnant women
B12 is very advantageous in pregnancy. It works to protect fetuses from heart diseases and many different problems. Research has shown that if a pregnant woman regularly consumes vitamin B12 and folic acid in specific amounts, it works to prevent birth defects.
Sources of Vitamin B12
You can get vitamin B12 in foods such as beef, poultry, fish, sheep meat, liver, etc. It is also found in eggs, dairy products, dates, carrots, and mangoes. While Vitamin B12 is not found in plant foods, it is found in fortified grains and leafy green vegetables. A few good sources of Vitamin B12 include:
- Milk
- Cow or sheep liver
- Chicken liver
- Minced beef
- Canned sardines
- Canned tuna fish
- Egg
To Conclude
Among the vast range of vitamins and minerals available for the benefit of humanity, B12 is probably one of the most useful elements. It offers several benefits to the human body while being readily available.
Try to include the vitamin in your diet for a better version of yourself, but before doing so, do consult your doctor.