Focus On Vitamins!
Vitamin “B12″
What is it?
Vitamin B12 is sometimes known as Cyanocobalamin. It is a Water Soluble Vitamin which means that our bodies do not hold onto it, in other words, we need a little bit everyday. Any excess we consume is lost in our urine or sweat, so replenishing it daily is a must.
How does it Help us & Why do we Need it?
As with every B Vitamin, B12 releases Energy from our food. It is involved very intimately with our Nerves as an insulator, in the manufacturing of normal Blood Cells, the Health of our Skin & Hair as well as our growth & development. B12 promotes normal fat & carb metabolism & protein syntheses. If our Cells are to divide properly, they need B12. In order to Absorb B12 efficiently, a compound named ‘intrinsic factor’ needs to be present in our stomach lining. Because of the issue with ‘intrinsic factor’ individuals with Celiac dis~ease, low stomach acid, or who have had stomach or intestinal surgery may have absorption issues (using in conjunction with Iron & Calcium can help).
What are the Best Vegan Sources?
The Best Vegan Sources of Vitamin B12 are: Tempeh, Miso, High Quality Sea Vegetables.
*(remember, by eating enough foods with essential Vitamin & Minerals you can never over~dose)!
Signs of Deficiency:
Deficiency symptoms include nausea, loss of appetite, sore mouth/tongue, diarrhea, abnormal gait, loss of sensation in feet & hands, confusion, depression, memory loss & weight loss. It can also cause Heart dis~ease if levels of homocysteine (an amino acid) increase too dramatically. Poor vision, recurrent yeast infections, & infertility may also occur. Most deficiency is due to a lack of ‘intrinsic factor’.
You May Benefit from Supplements:
Vegans, Vegetarians, Alcohol & Tabacco abusers, Individuals with wasting illnesses (aids, or chronic fevers), those extremely stressed, have under gone surgery, those missing part of the GI tract or with bowel & or pancreas malignancy. Individuals with Parkinsons’, Impotence, Migraines, Epilepsy, or are prone to infections may also benefit from supplementation
Signs of Toxicity:
There are no known signs as it is extremely rare.
Here’s to you being You.Naturally.
