What is vitamin B12? Vitamin B12 is the largest and most complex of all the vitamins. The formation, repair and maintance of red blood cells and nerve cells are largely dependent upon Vitamin B12. The red blood cells carry oxygen and nourish the organs and cells through out the body. Vitamin B12 is also needed to produce DNA, the genetic material in all cells. There are enzymes which require vitamin B12 to produce energy from fats and protein. Vitamin B12 may be important in cancer prevention, decrease risk of heart disease and Alzheimer's.

Our bodies and vitamin B12. It is during the process of digestion that the vitamin B12 is processed from proteins. Hydrochloric acid is neccesary for this process to occur. Vitamin B12 then requires a substance called Intrinsic factor that continues the breakdown so that vitamin B12 can perform useful tasks for maintaining good health.

Proteins, adequate hydrocloric acid, and effective gastric intrinsic factors are the basis for the breakdown and absorption process of dietary or oral supplements of Vitamin B12 for a healthy well nourished adult. Unfortunately, many of us take medications that reduce these acids, which may decrease the ability to use the ingested vitamin B12. There are many prescribed drugs, disease processes, ageing, alcohol ingestion, hormonal stresses, pregnancy, and simply low intake of protein that may directly interfere with vitamin B12 intake, absorption and a bodies needs.

What are sources of vitamin B12? The richest dietary sources of vitamin B12 are liver, kidneys, cheese, clams, crab, mussels, salmon, rockfish, cooked beef, chicken, turkey, eggs, and milk. Most oral multivitamin supplements contain 100-200 micrograms of vitamin B12. An example: 500 mcg. of vitamin B12 taken orally - approximately 1.8 mcg. may be absorbed due to the digestive process and the multi vitamin consistency. A sublingual tablet, which is dissolved under your tongue, is a better approach than oral supplement. Many have notice more effectiveness from an intramuscular injection. Increase in energy, decrease in headaches, more stable hormonal balance, stronger immune system, feeling more rested, or simply a feeling of wellness have been reported.

What are characteristics associated with a low vitamin B12 intake or absorption? Mood changes, memory loss, depression, ringing in the ears, frequent seasonal illnesses, loss of energy, poor sleep habits, irritability, unable to cope with stress, loss of appetite, weight loss, constipation, headaches, allergies, numbness and tingling of hands and feet.

Facts to Know about vitamin B12 injections. Vitamin B12 is most effective when taken at regular intervals. Vitamin B12 is a water-soluble vitamin, but unlike the others, it is not completely excreted quickly in the urine. Vitamin B12 may be stored in the liver and body fat tissues. People with liver or kidney disease and/or sensitivity to cobalt,aluminum, benzyl alcohol or vitamin B12 supplements, is pregnant, or breast feeding should consult their physicians before taking a vitamin B12 injection and/or vitamin B12 supplement.