B12

This is an important vitamin for everyone, not just those eating a plant-based diet. A blood test is the best way to see where you are in terms of your B12 supplementation needs.

It is important to buy B12 in the form of methyl-cobalamin not cyanocobalamin which is toxic to the liver.

Studies have shown that people with diabetes and other endocrine disorders are often deficient in B12. Some medications such as Metformin are suspected of causing B12 deficiency. B12 and other B vitamins play a role in producing chemicals in the brain that affect mood and other functions in the brain. There is a strong correlation between low B12 and anxiety and depression.

B12 is also necessary for:

-Energy production

-Blood formation

-DNA synthesis

-Myelin Formation (insulation that protects nerve endings and allows nerve endings to send signals to the brain)

Symptoms of B`12 deficiency and B12 related anemia include:

-Feeling tired or weak

-Pale appearance to the lining of the lower eyelids

-Palpitations, fast, or irregular heartbeat

-Faintness and breathlessness

-Hair loss

-Bruises that occurs without reason

-Dizziness

-Long or unusually heavy menstrual period

B12 deficiency is fairly common. B 12 deficiency can cause a type of anemia that is characterized by fewer but larger red blood cells. Other effects include walking and balance disturbances, confusion, and in seriously advanced cases, dementia.

To help with B12 absorption:

-eat more foods that are good sources of iron such as green leafy vegetables and dried fruit.

-help your body absorb iron and B12 better by eating foods high in Vitamin C.

-Avoid antacids, phosphates, (found in soda, beer, ice cream, candy bars, etc.) and the food additives EDTA. These block absorption.