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What is vitamin B12?
Vitamin B12 is an essential water-soluble nutrient, also known as cobalamin. It plays a vital role in the healthy functioning of many systems in the body, including:
DNA (genetic material) synthesis
Energy production (metabolism)
Neurological (brain) function
Nerve cell health
Red blood cell (hemoglobin) formation
Vitamin B12 plays a key role in the normal functioning of the brain and nervous system. It’s also important in the formation of red blood cells. A lack of B12 can lead to anemia (not having enough red blood cells), which causes you to feel tired and weak.
What are some symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency?
Chemically, vitamin B12 can exist in various forms, but all of them contain the mineral cobalt. The liver can store the vitamin for a long time, so it may take a few years for deficiency and symptoms to develop. Some common signs and symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency include: