The Benefits of Vitamin B12
Courtesy Avere Healthcare Clinic
Are you feeling tired, or do you lack the energy to do all you want to do? This could possibly be a result of a deficiency of the energy boosting nutrient called vitamin B12.
Vitamin B12 has long been known for its health benefits. It is a water soluble vitamin that is found in highest levels in meat, fish, milk and fortified processed foods. B12 supplements are available via oral tablets, sublingual drops, and injections. Oral supplementation of vitamin B12 does not absorb very well. Sublingual drops are better than oral tablets, but the best way to know that you are getting the B12 you need is to take it via injection.
Signs of B12 deficiency can include fatigue, weakness, insomnia, depression, easy bruising, numbness and tingling in hands or feet and memory problems. B12 deficiency has also been linked to migraine headaches and menstrual irregularities. A few facts about B12 include:
1. Recent research has shown that higher levels of vitamin B12 protect against brain changes that happen with aging. People with higher B12 levels are less likely to develop dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
2. B12 is involved in the process that converts food into energy, which is why it gives people an energy boost. Without it, the food we eat is not able to be processed as efficiently for energy production. This leads to fatigue and weight gain.
3. B12 also has an important role in forming new red blood cells. Not having enough B12 can lead to anemia, which can cause fatigue, shortness of breath, rapid heart rate and weakness.
4. B12 is a very important part of the covering of our nervous system, the myelin sheath. This helps our neurological system to work better, which improves mood, memory, reaction time and just makes us feel better!
A simple blood test will determine whether or not you have a B12 deficiency. At Avere Healthcare Clinic, we are dedicated to helping individuals regain their energy levels with B12 replacement therapy. Call us today!
