Vitamin B12 is a water-soluble vitamin that is required for proper red blood cell formation, neurological function, synthesis of DNA and melatonin, and production of the essential amino acid methionine for cell metabolism. The vitamin is bound to protein and, after ingestion, it is released by gastric acids and proteolytic enzymes in the stomach. Dietary intake sources of vitamin B12 are primarily from animal proteins, such as meat, eggs, poultry, fish and milk, but it can also be obtained from vitamin-fortified cereals and some nutritional yeast products.
Deficiencies for this vitamin are determined by blood serum testing. Older adults with pernicious anemia, those with reduced stomach acids or intestinal disorders, people who have trouble sleeping (due to melatonin deficiency), and strict vegetarians can exhibit deficiencies for this vitamin. http://dietary-supplements.info.nih.gov/factsheets/vitaminb12.asp Some drugs interfere with the absorption of vitamin B12, such as sulfa drugs, alcohol, methotrexate and anti-convulsants.
How Vitamin B12 is Used by the Body
Vitamin B12 is a coenzyme, meaning that it is need for an enzymatic reaction that converts the amino acid homocysteine to methionine. It is also necessary for another chemical conversion that makes succinyl-coenzyme A, an important metabolite for the tricarboxylic acid cycle. http://www.britannica.com/facts/5/507670/succinyl-coenzyme-A-as-discussed-in-metabolism-biology Levels of homocysteine, which is a normal component of the bloodstream, are affected by diet and genetics. Elevated levels are found in those who have deficiencies of vitamin B12, B6 or folic acid. http://www.cdc.gov/nutritionreport/part_1.html
How to Boost Your Energy Naturally with B-12
Dr Mercola talks about getting energy boosts in the morning. Instead of coffee in the morning, you can use a vitamin B-12 boost. There is a new spray called "Vitamin B12 Boost" that you can spray on your tongue. It is absorbed by the bodily rapidly and you get a rapid, natural energy boost.
References
Fast Facts
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'''Forms of Vitamin B12 absorbed by humans'''
Methylcobalamin and 5-deoxyadenosylcobalamin
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'''Deficiency symptoms'''
Anemia, Vitamin B12 neuropathy (degeneration of nerve fibers, causing irreversible damage)
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'''Primary causes of deficiency'''
Reduced stomach acid, reduced ability of the intestine to absorb B12
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'''Sources of dietary intake for vegetarians'''
Milk and eggs, fortified foods such as yeast extract, veggieburger patties, textured vegetable protein, soy milk, and cereals.
