​Health Benefits of B12, Based on Science

Vitamin B12 is a water-soluble vitamin that plays an important role in many aspects of health. B12 is involved in the metabolism of every cell of the body, and it is essential for the normal formation of red blood cells and DNA. B12 is also needed for proper brain function and nervous system development. Unfortunately, B12 deficiencies are quite common, particularly among older adults. B12 deficiencies can lead to fatigue, anemia, and neurological problems. Supplements are available in both pill and injection form. B12 injections are generally considered the most effective way to increase B12 levels, but they can be costly and require a prescription. B12 supplements are less expensive and can be purchased over the counter. Either way, increasing your B12 levels can have a profound impact on your overall health.

Aids with red blood cell formation and anemia prevention

Vitamin B12 is an essential nutrient that plays a vital role in helping your body produce red blood cells. Low vitamin B12 levels can cause a reduction in red blood cell formation and prevent them from developing properly. Healthy red blood cells are small and round, whereas they become larger and typically oval in cases of vitamin B12 deficiency. Due to this larger and irregular shape, the red blood cells are unable to move from the bone marrow into the bloodstream at an appropriate rate, causing megaloblastic anemia. When you have anemia, your body doesn’t have enough red blood cells to transport oxygen to your vital organs. This can cause symptoms like fatigue and weakness.

May prevent major birth defects

As any expectant mother knows, a healthy pregnancy requires proper nutrition. Vitamins and minerals are essential for both the mother and the developing fetus, and one crucial nutrient is vitamin B12. This vitamin is important for the formation of red blood cells, as well as the development of the brain and nervous system. Studies have shown that a lack of vitamin B12 in early pregnancy can lead to an increased risk of birth defects, such as neural tube defects. Additionally, maternal vitamin B12 deficiency has been linked to premature birth and miscarriage. One older study found that pregnant women with vitamin B12 levels lower than 250 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) were three times more likely to give birth to a child with birth defects, compared to those with adequate levels. For women with a vitamin B12 deficiency and levels below 150 mg/dL, the risk was five times higher.

May support bone health and prevent osteoporosis

As we age, it becomes increasingly important to take steps to support our bone health. Vitamin B12 is one nutrient that may be particularly beneficial in this regard. Several studies have linked low vitamin B12 levels to decreased bone mineral density and an increased risk of osteoporosis or fractures. This is particularly a concern for people with celiac disease, as they are at greater risk of vitamin B12 deficiency.

May reduce your risk of macular degeneration

As we age, it's important to be aware of changes in our vision. One eye disease that mainly affects older adults is macular degeneration. According to the Mayo Clinic, macular degeneration is "a condition that causes damage to the macula, which is the small central portion of the retina — the sensitive tissue at the back of your eye that records images and sends them through your optic nerve to your brain." symptoms include blurry vision and difficulty seeing fine details. The good news is that there are lifestyle changes you can make to help reduce your risk of developing this condition. For example, maintaining adequate levels of vitamin B12 has been shown to be helpful. Vitamin B12 helps prevent homocysteine levels from becoming too high. High homocysteine levels have been linked with an increased risk of macular degeneration. So, if you're over the age of 40, consider adding a vitamin B12 supplement to your daily routine. It may help keep your vision sharp for years to come!

May improve mood and symptoms of depression

Vitamin B12 is an important vitamin for overall health, and it may also play a role in mood. This vitamin helps the body to synthesize and metabolize serotonin, which is a chemical responsible for regulating mood. A deficiency in vitamin B12 may lead to decreased serotonin production, which can cause a depressed mood. One study found that people with depression and vitamin B12 levels on the low side of normal were more likely to improve when they received both antidepressants and vitamin B12. While more research is needed to fully understand the connection between vitamin B12 and mood, these findings suggest that supplementing with B12 may be important for healthy mood regulation.

May benefit your brain my preventing the loss of neurons

While there may be some natural decline in cognitive function, vitamin B12 deficiency has also been linked to memory loss, especially in older adults. B12 is essential for the formation of red blood cells and for the nervous system. A lack of B12 can cause anemia and fatigue, as well as problems with balance, vision and memory. One study showed that a combination of B12 and omega-3 supplements slowed mental decline in people with early-stage dementia. Another study found that even levels of B12 on the low side of normal can contribute to poor memory performance.

May give you an energy boost

Vitamin B12 is an essential vitamin that plays a vital role in many of your body's key functions. Though it's often touted as a 'miracle cure' for fatigue, there is no scientific evidence to support this claim. However, if you are significantly deficient in vitamin B12, taking a supplement or increasing your intake can improve your energy levels. One of the most common early signs of vitamin B12 deficiency is fatigue or lack of energy, so if you're feeling tired all the time, it's worth considering whether you might be deficient.

May improve heart health by decreasing homocysteine

If you or someone you know is concerned about the risk of heart disease, you may want to pay attention to homocysteine levels. High levels of homocysteine have been linked to an increased risk of heart disease, and studies have shown that vitamin B12 can help decrease homocysteine levels. So, if you're deficient in vitamin B12, you may be increasing your risk of heart disease.

To keep your homocysteine levels in check, make sure you're getting enough vitamin B12. You can get vitamin B12 from foods like eggs, milk, and meat, or you can take a supplement. By keeping your homocysteine levels in check, you may be able to reduce your risk of heart disease.

Supports healthy hair, skin and nails

Everyone wants to look their best, and luckily, there are many vitamins and minerals that can help promote healthy hair, skin, and nails. One of these vitamins is vitamin B12, which plays an important role in cell production. adequate levels of vitamin B12 are needed for healthy hair, skin, and nails. In fact, low vitamin B12 levels can cause various dermatologic symptoms, including hyperpigmentation, nail discoloration, hair changes, vitiligo (the loss of skin color in patches), and angular stomatitis (inflamed and cracked mouth corners). Supplementing with vitamin B12 has been shown to improve dermatologic symptoms in people with B12 deficiency. So, if you're looking to give your appearance a boost, make sure you're getting enough vitamin B12!

The Bottom Line

Vitamin B12 is a water-soluble vitamin that you must obtain through diet or supplements. It’s responsible for many bodily functions and may benefit your health in various ways, such as by preventing major birth defects, supporting bone health, improving mood, and maintaining healthy skin and hair. Getting enough vitamin B12 through your diet is crucial. MRI Imuni-V Immune Support Powder is a simple way to increase your B12 intake. It contains Vitamin C and many other antioxidants that help support a healthy immune system.