B-12 is a water soluble vitamin that is found in meat, fish, poultry, dairy products, and some fortified foods. This vitamin helps make our DNA, is involved in nerve function, and also blood formation, specifically red blood cells. While B-12 deficiency is rare for those that consume meat and dairy, vitamin B-12 deficiency can lead to never damage, digestive problems, fatigue, and anemia in which the body does not have enough red blood cells. When the body doesn’t have enough red blood cells our organs and tissues do not get the proper amount of oxygen, leading to weakened muscles and fatigue. With lack of oxygen to our brain and nerves, this can also lead to concentrate and memory problems, along with numbness and tingling.
Since B-12 is coming mainly from animal sources, if you are vegan or vegetarian supplementing with B-12 will be important or you will be susceptible to B-12 deficiency. B-12 is generally very safe to supplement with as our bodies will only absorb just as much as we need, excreting any excess through our urine. B-12 is recommended for women who are pregnant or breast-feeding, and also for older adults, or individuals with conditions that affect B-12 absorption. It is important to remember that vitamin B-12 is not a stimulant and will not provide an instant short term energy boost like caffeine would, however B-12 can provide a steady long term energy level, improving the bodies overall performance if consumed regularly and/or properly supplemented with.
In Protea True Nutrition Baseline+ we use 240mcgs of Methylcobalamin B12, instead of Cyanocobalamin which is a synthetic form of vitamin B12 found in most supplements. Methylcobalamin is the superior and naturally occurring form that is absorbed through either food sources or supplements. Methylcobalamin is also better absorbed and retained than other forms of B12 (e.g., cyanocobalamin) and supports nerve tissue and brain cells, promotes better sleep and converts (via methylation) homocysteine, an oxidizing metabolite, back into the amino acid methionine much more efficiently.
The contents of this blog should not be taken as medical advice. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any health problem-nor is it intended to replace the advice of a physician. Always consult your physician or qualified health professional on any matters regarding your health. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
