Vitamin B12 is unlike most water-soluble vitamins, which are absorbed by the body with excess amounts being flushed out through the urinary system. Instead, the body can store B12 in the liver for years.
Potential
An overdose of vitamin B12 is very rare, but individuals should do so under the care of a physician, as data is limited in regard to the potential for B12 toxicity.
Recommended Dosage
The recommended daily intake of B12 for men and women 19 and older is 2.4 mcg. Because B12 is naturally present in animal protein, vegans and other individuals who don't eat an adequate amount of B12 may benefit from .
Role of B12
Best known for its role in regulating metabolism, B12 is also vital in the production of red blood cells and in the prevention of anemia. It also assists in the replication of DNA.
Other Roles
B12 also helps convert homocysteine to methionine, which is an important role as high homocysteine levels can increase the risk of a heart attack. This vitamin also boosts neurotransmitter production, which helps regulate pain, mood and sleep.
Symptoms of Deficiency
Patients with low levels of B12 may take B12 supplements to combat a wide range of symptoms such as fatigue, certain forms of anemia, numbness in the extremities, constipation, loss of memory, nerve damage and moodiness.
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