Vitamin B12 – ( Cobalamin ) is a water-soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in the normal functioning of the brain, nervous system, and blood formation.
It is one of the 8 B Group vitamins, and it’s metabolized of each cell in the human body.
Vitamin B12 offers many nootropic benefits for both neuronal development and maintenance, as well as cognitive processes related to memory, training, concentration, and motivation. It also plays a vital role in DNA synthesis and regulation, as well as in fatty acid synthesis and energy production.
Because this vitamin is water-soluble, it cannot be stored by the body for long periods. For this reason, we need to continually supply vitamin B12 to our organization to prevent deficiencies and ensure proper physiological function.
Vitamin B12 consists of chemically related compounds, all of which have a class of vitamin activity. This class is also cobalt, a biologically rare element. This supplement is made by bacteria, although the human body can do the conversion of different forms of vitamin B12.
Vitamin B12 has been linked to an autoimmune disease called catastrophic anemia, in which specific digestive cells in the stomach are destroyed.
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Effect of Vitamin B12
This supplement has the largest and most complex chemical structure of all vitamins. Most of the other forms of vitamin B12 begin their work by converting them into two different chemicals and many enzymes that are then used by the body.
The body uses cobalamin in the synthesis of various enzymes, such as the enzyme needed for the amino acid methionine (from homocysteine).
It also causes the production of methyl group donors, which are essential in DNA and RNA methylation. These reactions have been linked to cancer prevention and may reduce the risk of developing cardiovascular disease.
There are many more essential and chemically complex effects of cobalamin. These include the ability to produce or aid in the production of red blood cells. It also supports nerve cell development and is essential for healthy neurological function.
Also, this supplement allows cells to properly metabolize (or use) proteins, carbohydrates, and fats. As mentioned above, it also promotes balance and leads to healthy levels of homocysteine, leading to cardiovascular health and optimal blood sugar metabolism.
Vitamin B12 Benefits
B12 or cobalamin is a necessary component of our diet for overall body health, but its benefits are particularly prevalent when it comes to brainpower. B12 supplementation has been shown to increase energy and overall alertness.
From a purely cognitive point of view, this supplement can improve memory and intelligence, as well as increase attention and concentration. Many users have also reported calmer, better quality sleep, less stress and anxiety, and even increased mood with B12 capsules.
Cobalamin supplements can lower homocysteine levels, and an amino acid believed to increase the risk of heart disease. Homocysteine is also associated with brain contraction, which can lead to various signs of cognitive decline, such as Alzheimer’s.
In this regard, cobalamin is associated with the prevention of brain contraction and can slow down dementia occurrence. In one study, patients receiving vitamin B6, B12, and folic acid had a 90% reduction in brain tissue atrophy.
The use of cobalamin on the skin can treat diseases such as eczema. It can also help address some less severe rashes, reactions, blemishes, and general skin damage.
Studies show that cobalamin can help protect against certain cancers. 2003 The study deals with cervical cancer. It was concluded that women taking B12 supplements and high intakes of folate, riboflavin, and thiamine reduce the risk of developing cervical cancer.
Dosage of Vitamin B12
The recommended daily dose of vitamin B12 is quite low, about 2.4 mg for most adults. This amount is considered insufficient to improve brain capacity significantly. For additional purposes, 25 to 100 micrograms are usually recommended.
You may need to increase your dose later in life; as we grow older, it becomes harder for the body to absorb vitamin B12. Some studies have used doses of up to 500 mcg/day, with no adverse side effects or positive effects on brain health.
Vitamin B12 Side Effects
No toxicity or serious adverse effects have been reported with this supplement. Even significant 1mg “mega portions” s
consumed disappeared without substantial side effects. Higher doses reduce the absorption of this vitamin, which means that dosing is less cost-effective. However, the Food and Nutrition Council has not set a maximum level of intake.
Vitamin B12 – Overview
Cobalamin or vitamin B12 is another example of how B complex vitamins are essential for cognitive function. Studies continue to determine the association between B12 supplementation and reduced signs of cognitive decline due to aging.
Anyone who combines nootropics or just wants to maximize their intellectual power should find a high-quality Vitamin B family multi-vitamin. You are unlikely to take too much of this vitamin and get side effects.
Vitamin B12 can help you improve your memory, make it easier to focus, enhance signaling between neurons, and even protect your brain.
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[accordion-item title=”References”]
- Mayo Clinic. Drugs and Supplements. Vitamin B12. Accessed Dec. 27, 2016
- National Institutes of Health. Office of Dietary Supplements. Vitamin B12. Dietary Supplement Fact Sheet. Accessed Dec. 27, 2016
- Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database. Vitamin B12 Monograph. Accessed Dec. 27, 2016.
- Axe, Josh. Vitamin B12 Benefits That You’re Probably Missing. Accessed Dec. 27, 2016
- Oregon State University. Linus Pauling Institute. Micronutrient Information Center. Vitamin B12. Accessed Dec. 27, 2016
- University of Maryland Medical Center. Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin). Accessed Dec. 27, 2016
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