In this article, we will discuss Vitamin B12 functions. We will also discuss some common questions related to Vitamin B12.
What is Vitamin B12?
Vitamin B12 is important for a healthy body helping in various body activities and growth. Vitamin B12 helps to keep nerve cells and blood cells healthy. This vitamin is needed for DNA making, which is the genetic material for all cells. Vitamin B12 is not produced by the body so have to be taken from through a diet, various animal products are the sources of Vitamin B12 like meat, eggs, dairy, fish, fortified foods (cereals, bread), poultry etc. The amount of B12 needed for healthy growth is 2.4 micrograms (mcg). The amount of B12 varies based on the needs of children and babies. Vitamin B12 is also known as cobalamin and the taste is between bitter and sour.
What are the Functions of Vitamin B12?
Vitamin B12 is a natural substance that is very important for the normal functioning of the body. Any deficiency of the vitamin can lead to disorders in the body. Here are the functions of B12:
Helps in Brain and Nervous system
Vitamin B12 maintains the normal functioning of the nervous system through neurotransmitter synthesis and hormones. This helps to control the brain functions, mood and perception of the person. Vitamin B12 helps to keep the nerves healthy and smooth functioning with nerve repair at times.
Helps in Cognitive Functioning
Vitamin B12 helps in the production of neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamin which helps to improve memory, mood and focus by mitigating the decline of cognitive functioning. This vitamin is very important for supporting and functioning of the nervous system. Vitamin B12 helps in brain development by proper neural development, neuroprotective effects, anxiety and depression.
Red Blood Cell Formation and Anemia Prevention
Vitamin B12 is an essential component for the composition of red blood cells (RBCs). These cells are responsible for carrying oxygen to all parts of the body and help in normal functioning. A deficiency of vitamin B12 leads to the formation of irregular RBCs called megaloblasts, which do not leave the bone marrow. This leads to fewer RBCs in the blood and results in anaemia condition.
Regulate and Create DNA
Vitamin B12 acts as a cofactor for enzymes involved in the synthesis of DNA process. One of the particular processes is the methylation of DNA, essential for proper gene expression and structural integrity of chromosomes. Deficiency can lead to DNA damage and cell disruption.
Helps in Energy Production
Vitamin B12 acts as a coenzyme, which helps the body to convert food into usable energy. This helps to enhance the metabolic processes that break down these nutrients into glucose. Which is utilized by cells for the production of energy and allows the body to efficiently extract energy from the food.
Which tests are used for Vitamin B12?
A person should go for regular checkups for vitamin B12 for healthy and normal functioning of the body. Here are the tests used for vitamin B12:
- Serum Vitamin B12 (Book Now)
- Vitamin B12 Active (Holotranscobalamin) (Book Now)
- Cobalamin and Folate Deficiency (Book Now)
- Pernicious Anemia Panel (Book Now)
Other tests for routine health checkups to keep the body healthy and alert from conditions.
- Full body health checkups (Book Now)
- Regular Health Checkup Package (Book Now)
- Complete Medical Checkup Package (Book Now)
- General Health Package (Book Now)
- Extended Health Package (Book Now)
Conclusion
Vitamin B12 is important for a healthy body helping in various body activities and growth. Vitamin B12 helps to keep nerve cells and blood cells healthy. This vitamin is needed for DNA making, which is the genetic material for all cells. Different functions of vitamin B12 include Helping the Brain and Nervous system, Cognitive Functioning, Red Blood Cell Formation, Regulating and Creating DNA, Energy Production etc. There are tests used to detect the vitamin B12 deficiency.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)
What is Vitamin B12?
Vitamin B12 is important for a healthy body helping in various body activities and growth. Vitamin B12 helps to keep nerve cells and blood cells healthy.
What are the Functions of Vitamin B12?
Different functions of vitamin B12 include: Helping in Brain and Nervous system, Cognitive Functioning, Red Blood Cell Formation, Regulating and Creating DNA, Energy Production etc. etc.
What are the various side effects of high-dose Vitamin B12?
Vitamin B12 in high doses can create headache, vomiting, nausea, Diarrhea, dizziness, skin rash etc.
Can I take Vitamin B12 during diabetes?
Yes, you can take Vitamin B12 during diabetes but in moderation, It also depends on various factors. So, better to consult a doctor before going for the same.
Does Vitamin B12 expire?
Yes, Vitamin B12 can have different expiry dates depending on the packaging and the source of Vitamin B12.
Can we feed babies with Vitamin B12?
Yes, we can feed babies with Vitamin B12 as per doctor-recommended doses.
Can I take Vitamin B12 with other medications?
Yes, But the medications should be taken separately.
How to book an appointment for a Vitamin B12 Test in Delhi?
Patients can visit Ganesh's diagnostic website or call at 011-47-444-444 / 011-47-333-333 to book an appointment for any vitamin B12 test in Delhi.
