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vitamin b12
- Thread starter TJ24
- Start date
Sublingual is not as effective as injectable, It is surely effective enough to insure more than your rda but may not give the amounts necessary for some of the unproven effects looked for here. Here is a longish article that pretty much pins it down:
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http://www.sbwise.com/ingredients/vitamin_b12.htm
Vitamin B 12 (Cobalamin)
DESCRIPTION
Vitamin B12, a water-soluble vitamin is a bright red crystalline compound due to its high content of cobalt. Vitamin B12 is also known as cobalamin or cyanocobalamin, a name that reflects the presence of cobalt within the vitamin’s structure. Cobalamin is unique in that it was the first cobalt-containing substance discovered to be essential to life, and it is the only vitamin that contains essential mineral elements.
Vitamin B12 was first isolated from liver extract in 1948 when researchers discovered that it prevented pernicious anemia, a deadly type of anemia characterized by large, immature red blood cells.
Cobalamin works in conjunction with folic acid in numerous biological processes including the synthesis of DNA, choline, red blood cells, and the myelin sheath that surrounds the nerve cells. Vitamin B12 is essential for effective metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats in the body.
Vitamin B12 supplementation, as an adjunct to a complete holistic program, is indicated for many conditions including AIDS, asthma, depression, diabetic neuropathy, low sperm counts, multiple sclerosis, tinnitus, and impaired mental function in the elderly.
METHOD OF ACTION
Vitamin B12 enhances iron function in the body and assists folic acid in the synthesis of choline. Cobalamin also helps the body to utilize vitamin A, because it aids the conversion and absorption of beta-carotene into vitamin A. Vitamin B12 also provides a role in the production of DNA and RNA, the body’s genetic material.
Vitamin B12 cannot be efficiently absorbed from the stomach unless a mucoprotein enzyme called "intrinsic factor" is present. Intrinsic factor is a gastric secretion that binds to vitamin B12 and assists in the absorption of the vitamin in the lower small intestine. Intrinsic factor may be blocked by autoimmune reactions in the body and thus B12 absorption is prevented. Autoimmune reactions may completely prevent the cells’ ability to produce intrinsic factor. Stomach surgery may also impair absorption, and the use of injections and lozenges becomes necessary (Kirschmann, 1996; Somer, 1995).
After B12 is absorbed, it is bound to serum protein globulins and is transported by the circulatory system to various tissues in the body. The highest concentrations of B12 are found in the liver, kidneys, heart, pancreas, testes, brain, blood, and bone marrow. These body tissues are all related to red blood cell formation.
The amount of B12 absorbed by the body is regulated by intrinsic factor, which if absent causes pernicious anemia. When B12 dietary intake is low, 60 to 80 % of the vitamin is absorbed. When dietary intake is high, absorption decreases from 50 to 10 %. Absorption is better when the vitamin is taken throughout the course of the day. Absorption decreases with age and with iron, calcium, and B6 deficiencies and increases during pregnancy. Cobalamin absorption is depleted by the use of laxatives and it is also destroyed in heated solutions that are acid or alkaline. (Kirschmann,1996).
PROPERTIES & USES
_PERNICIOUS ANEMIA_
Supplemental B12 is used to treat pernicious anemia, an ailment characterized by insufficient red blood cells in the bone marrow. An injectable form is usually used in order to bypass the absorption defect in pernicious anemia patients. However, an editorial in the January 2, 1991 edition of JAMA (Journal of the American Medical Association) states that oral therapy produces reliable and effective treatment for pernicious anemia. Data suggests that if high enough doses of oral vitamin B12 are used the results will be satisfactory. Cobalamin assists in the first phase of red blood cell maturation and the protein, iron, vitamin C and folic acid finish the process (Kirschmann, 1996).
_DEPRSSION AND MOOD DISORDERS_
Vitamin B12 is beneficial for disturbances of the nervous and brain deficiencies. It is essential for the production of certain amino acids and fats and in the formation and maintenance of the nervous system. The entire B complex is crucial in the formation of neurotransmitters, which are chemicals that facilitate communication between nerve cells. This action contributes to vitamin
B12 role in preventing depression and other mood disorders. Depression due to vitamin B12 deficiency is especially common in the elderly, and correcting the deficiency often results in a dramatic improvement of the mood (Somer, 1995).
_ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE and IMPAIRED MENTAL FUNCTION IN THE ELDERLY_
Reversible nutritional deficiencies often play a role in impaired mental function in the elderly (senility). Folic acid and vitamin B12 are two of the most common nutritional deficiencies in the elderly. A vitamin B12 deficiency may be present even if there is no detectable anemia or other deficiency symptoms. Changes in the blood cells may never occur even when a severe deficiency is affecting the brain and other tissues.
Alzheimer’s disease is a chronic and progressive brain disorder that is characterized by memory loss, nerve damage, and confusion. Studies have shown that patients with Alzheimer’s disease have significantly low serum vitamin B12 levels and vitamin B12 deficiency. It has not been established whether low vitamin B12 levels are a cause or a result of the disease.
Deficiency of cobalamin is also commonly found with impaired mental function (dementia, senility) in the elderly. Thus, supplementation with vitamin B12 is often indicated with the elderly (Murray, 1996; Somer, 1995).
Although vitamin B12 is very helpful in certain conditions experienced by the elderly, it is beneficial to people of all ages. Vitamin B12 enhances energy and is particularly indicated during times of stress, fatigue, or recovery from an illness. Cobalamin helps stimulate metabolism and is indicated for chronic fatigue syndrome.
Vitamin B12 is also indicated in many other conditions including AIDS, asthma, diabetic neuropathy, low sperm counts, multiple sclerosis and tinnitus (Kirschmann, 1996; Murray, 1996).
CONSEQUENCE OF DEFICIENCY
Although vitamin B12 is a water-soluble vitamin, it is also stored in the liver, kidney, and other body tissues. Thus, symptoms of a vitamin B12 deficiency may not manifest before 5 to 6 years of insufficient dietary intake or inadequate secretion of intrinsic factor. Pernicious anemia is the characteristic condition of vitamin B12 deficiency. However, vitamin B12 deficiency will first affect the brain and nervous system, before fulmination of pernicious anemia. Symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency induced impaired nerve function include numbness, pins-and-needles sensations, or a burning feeling. Deficiency symptoms manifest with changes in the nervous system such as soreness and weakness in the legs and arms, diminished reflex response and sensory perception, memory loss, weakness and fatigue, difficulty walking and speaking, jerking of limbs, disorientation, and impaired touch or pain perception. These symptoms occur in varying degrees and combinations and may also be accompanied by a burning sensation in the mouth. In the elderly, it can cause impaired mental function that mimics Alzheimer’s disease. Vitamin B12 deficiency is quite common in the geriatric population and is a major cause of depression in this age group (Murray, 1996; Kirschmann, 1996).
Vitamin B12 deficiency can also result in a smooth beefy red tongue and diarrhea. This occurs because the rapidly dividing cells that line the oral and gastrointestinal tract cannot replicate without vitamin B12 (Murray, 1996).
Vitamin B12 deficiency due to inadequate dietary intake is rare, and 95% of the B12 deficiencies seen in the United States are due to inadequate absorption capabilities (RDA, 1989). It is imperative to rule out folic acid masking vitamin B12 deficiency. A high intake of folic acid may mask a cobalamin deficiency because it prevents changes in the red blood cells but does not counteract the effects of the deficiency in the brain. (Kirschmann, 1986).
Deficiency of cobalamin may cause a type of brain damage resembling schizophrenia. Psychotic symptoms may vary in severity from mild disorders of mood, mental slowness, and memory deterioration to severe psychotic symptoms. Cobalamin deficiency may also include nervousness, neuritis, unpleasant body odor, and menstrual disturbances. With severe symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency, it is important to consult a qualified health care professional (Kirschmann, 1996).
SAFETY FACTORS
No clear toxicity has ever been reported from vitamin B12 (Murray, 1996).
RECOMMENDED DIETARY ALLOWANCE
Recommended Dietary Allowances of Cobalamin (Vitamin B12) (Murray, 1996)
Group
Micrograms
INFANTS
Under 6 months
0.3
6-12 months
0.5
CHILDREN
1-3 YEARS
0.7
4-6 YEARS
1.0
7-10 YEARS
1.4
Young adults and adults
11+ years
2.0
Pregnant females
2.2
Lactating females
2.1
FOOD SOURCES
The most concentrated sources of vitamin B12 are liver and kidney, followed by eggs, fish, cheese, and meat. Strict vegetarians, and especially vegans (no animal or dairy products), are advised to supplement B12. Although some vegetarian foods such as tempeh and sea vegetables contain B12, some evidence indicates that the human body does not absorb the form of B12 in these foods.
Vitamin B12 Content of Selected Foods, in Micrograms per 3 ½ oz. (100 GM.) Serving (Murray, 1996)
Liver, lamb
104.0
Salmon
4.0
Blue cheese
1.4
Clams
98.0
Tuna
3.0
Haddock
1.3
Liver, beef
80.0
Lamb
2.1
Flounder
1.2
Kidneys, lamb
63.0
Eggs
2.0
Scallops
1.2
Liver, calf
60.0
Whey, dried
2.0
Cheddar cheese
1.0
Kidneys, beef
31.0
Beef, lean
1.8
Cottage cheese
1.0
Liver, chicken
25.0
Edam cheese
1.8
Mozzarella cheese
1.0
Oysters
18.0
Swiss cheese
1.8
Halibut
1.0
Sardines
17.0
Brie cheese
1.6
Perch, filets
1.0
Trout
5.0
Gruyere cheese
1.6
Swordfish
REFERENCES
Garrison, R & Somer, E. The Nutrition Desk Reference. New Canaan, CN: Keats Publishing, 1995.
Hendler, S. The Doctor’s Vitamin and Mineral Encyclopedia. New York: Simon & Schuster, 1990.
Janson, M. The Vitamin Revolution. Greenville, NH: Arcadia Press, 1996.
Kirschmann, G & J, Nutrition Almanac 4th ed. New York: McGraw Hill, 1996.
Murray, M. Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine. 2nd ed. Rocklin, CA: Prima Publishing, 1998.
Murray, M. Encyclopedia of Nutritional Supplements. Rocklin, CA: Prima Publishing, 1996.
Recommended Dietary Allowances 10th ed. Washington, D.C.: National Academy Press, 1989.
Somer, E. The Essential Guide to Vitamins and Minerals. New York: HarperCollins, 1995.
Werbach, M. Healing Through Nutrition. New York: HarperCollins, 1993.
Werbach, M. Nutritional Influences on Illness. 2nd ed. Tarzana CA: Third Line Pre
=============================================
http://www.sbwise.com/ingredients/vitamin_b12.htm
Vitamin B 12 (Cobalamin)
DESCRIPTION
Vitamin B12, a water-soluble vitamin is a bright red crystalline compound due to its high content of cobalt. Vitamin B12 is also known as cobalamin or cyanocobalamin, a name that reflects the presence of cobalt within the vitamin’s structure. Cobalamin is unique in that it was the first cobalt-containing substance discovered to be essential to life, and it is the only vitamin that contains essential mineral elements.
Vitamin B12 was first isolated from liver extract in 1948 when researchers discovered that it prevented pernicious anemia, a deadly type of anemia characterized by large, immature red blood cells.
Cobalamin works in conjunction with folic acid in numerous biological processes including the synthesis of DNA, choline, red blood cells, and the myelin sheath that surrounds the nerve cells. Vitamin B12 is essential for effective metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats in the body.
Vitamin B12 supplementation, as an adjunct to a complete holistic program, is indicated for many conditions including AIDS, asthma, depression, diabetic neuropathy, low sperm counts, multiple sclerosis, tinnitus, and impaired mental function in the elderly.
METHOD OF ACTION
Vitamin B12 enhances iron function in the body and assists folic acid in the synthesis of choline. Cobalamin also helps the body to utilize vitamin A, because it aids the conversion and absorption of beta-carotene into vitamin A. Vitamin B12 also provides a role in the production of DNA and RNA, the body’s genetic material.
Vitamin B12 cannot be efficiently absorbed from the stomach unless a mucoprotein enzyme called "intrinsic factor" is present. Intrinsic factor is a gastric secretion that binds to vitamin B12 and assists in the absorption of the vitamin in the lower small intestine. Intrinsic factor may be blocked by autoimmune reactions in the body and thus B12 absorption is prevented. Autoimmune reactions may completely prevent the cells’ ability to produce intrinsic factor. Stomach surgery may also impair absorption, and the use of injections and lozenges becomes necessary (Kirschmann, 1996; Somer, 1995).
After B12 is absorbed, it is bound to serum protein globulins and is transported by the circulatory system to various tissues in the body. The highest concentrations of B12 are found in the liver, kidneys, heart, pancreas, testes, brain, blood, and bone marrow. These body tissues are all related to red blood cell formation.
The amount of B12 absorbed by the body is regulated by intrinsic factor, which if absent causes pernicious anemia. When B12 dietary intake is low, 60 to 80 % of the vitamin is absorbed. When dietary intake is high, absorption decreases from 50 to 10 %. Absorption is better when the vitamin is taken throughout the course of the day. Absorption decreases with age and with iron, calcium, and B6 deficiencies and increases during pregnancy. Cobalamin absorption is depleted by the use of laxatives and it is also destroyed in heated solutions that are acid or alkaline. (Kirschmann,1996).
PROPERTIES & USES
_PERNICIOUS ANEMIA_
Supplemental B12 is used to treat pernicious anemia, an ailment characterized by insufficient red blood cells in the bone marrow. An injectable form is usually used in order to bypass the absorption defect in pernicious anemia patients. However, an editorial in the January 2, 1991 edition of JAMA (Journal of the American Medical Association) states that oral therapy produces reliable and effective treatment for pernicious anemia. Data suggests that if high enough doses of oral vitamin B12 are used the results will be satisfactory. Cobalamin assists in the first phase of red blood cell maturation and the protein, iron, vitamin C and folic acid finish the process (Kirschmann, 1996).
_DEPRSSION AND MOOD DISORDERS_
Vitamin B12 is beneficial for disturbances of the nervous and brain deficiencies. It is essential for the production of certain amino acids and fats and in the formation and maintenance of the nervous system. The entire B complex is crucial in the formation of neurotransmitters, which are chemicals that facilitate communication between nerve cells. This action contributes to vitamin
B12 role in preventing depression and other mood disorders. Depression due to vitamin B12 deficiency is especially common in the elderly, and correcting the deficiency often results in a dramatic improvement of the mood (Somer, 1995).
_ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE and IMPAIRED MENTAL FUNCTION IN THE ELDERLY_
Reversible nutritional deficiencies often play a role in impaired mental function in the elderly (senility). Folic acid and vitamin B12 are two of the most common nutritional deficiencies in the elderly. A vitamin B12 deficiency may be present even if there is no detectable anemia or other deficiency symptoms. Changes in the blood cells may never occur even when a severe deficiency is affecting the brain and other tissues.
Alzheimer’s disease is a chronic and progressive brain disorder that is characterized by memory loss, nerve damage, and confusion. Studies have shown that patients with Alzheimer’s disease have significantly low serum vitamin B12 levels and vitamin B12 deficiency. It has not been established whether low vitamin B12 levels are a cause or a result of the disease.
Deficiency of cobalamin is also commonly found with impaired mental function (dementia, senility) in the elderly. Thus, supplementation with vitamin B12 is often indicated with the elderly (Murray, 1996; Somer, 1995).
Although vitamin B12 is very helpful in certain conditions experienced by the elderly, it is beneficial to people of all ages. Vitamin B12 enhances energy and is particularly indicated during times of stress, fatigue, or recovery from an illness. Cobalamin helps stimulate metabolism and is indicated for chronic fatigue syndrome.
Vitamin B12 is also indicated in many other conditions including AIDS, asthma, diabetic neuropathy, low sperm counts, multiple sclerosis and tinnitus (Kirschmann, 1996; Murray, 1996).
CONSEQUENCE OF DEFICIENCY
Although vitamin B12 is a water-soluble vitamin, it is also stored in the liver, kidney, and other body tissues. Thus, symptoms of a vitamin B12 deficiency may not manifest before 5 to 6 years of insufficient dietary intake or inadequate secretion of intrinsic factor. Pernicious anemia is the characteristic condition of vitamin B12 deficiency. However, vitamin B12 deficiency will first affect the brain and nervous system, before fulmination of pernicious anemia. Symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency induced impaired nerve function include numbness, pins-and-needles sensations, or a burning feeling. Deficiency symptoms manifest with changes in the nervous system such as soreness and weakness in the legs and arms, diminished reflex response and sensory perception, memory loss, weakness and fatigue, difficulty walking and speaking, jerking of limbs, disorientation, and impaired touch or pain perception. These symptoms occur in varying degrees and combinations and may also be accompanied by a burning sensation in the mouth. In the elderly, it can cause impaired mental function that mimics Alzheimer’s disease. Vitamin B12 deficiency is quite common in the geriatric population and is a major cause of depression in this age group (Murray, 1996; Kirschmann, 1996).
Vitamin B12 deficiency can also result in a smooth beefy red tongue and diarrhea. This occurs because the rapidly dividing cells that line the oral and gastrointestinal tract cannot replicate without vitamin B12 (Murray, 1996).
Vitamin B12 deficiency due to inadequate dietary intake is rare, and 95% of the B12 deficiencies seen in the United States are due to inadequate absorption capabilities (RDA, 1989). It is imperative to rule out folic acid masking vitamin B12 deficiency. A high intake of folic acid may mask a cobalamin deficiency because it prevents changes in the red blood cells but does not counteract the effects of the deficiency in the brain. (Kirschmann, 1986).
Deficiency of cobalamin may cause a type of brain damage resembling schizophrenia. Psychotic symptoms may vary in severity from mild disorders of mood, mental slowness, and memory deterioration to severe psychotic symptoms. Cobalamin deficiency may also include nervousness, neuritis, unpleasant body odor, and menstrual disturbances. With severe symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency, it is important to consult a qualified health care professional (Kirschmann, 1996).
SAFETY FACTORS
No clear toxicity has ever been reported from vitamin B12 (Murray, 1996).
RECOMMENDED DIETARY ALLOWANCE
Recommended Dietary Allowances of Cobalamin (Vitamin B12) (Murray, 1996)
Group
Micrograms
INFANTS
Under 6 months
0.3
6-12 months
0.5
CHILDREN
1-3 YEARS
0.7
4-6 YEARS
1.0
7-10 YEARS
1.4
Young adults and adults
11+ years
2.0
Pregnant females
2.2
Lactating females
2.1
FOOD SOURCES
The most concentrated sources of vitamin B12 are liver and kidney, followed by eggs, fish, cheese, and meat. Strict vegetarians, and especially vegans (no animal or dairy products), are advised to supplement B12. Although some vegetarian foods such as tempeh and sea vegetables contain B12, some evidence indicates that the human body does not absorb the form of B12 in these foods.
Vitamin B12 Content of Selected Foods, in Micrograms per 3 ½ oz. (100 GM.) Serving (Murray, 1996)
Liver, lamb
104.0
Salmon
4.0
Blue cheese
1.4
Clams
98.0
Tuna
3.0
Haddock
1.3
Liver, beef
80.0
Lamb
2.1
Flounder
1.2
Kidneys, lamb
63.0
Eggs
2.0
Scallops
1.2
Liver, calf
60.0
Whey, dried
2.0
Cheddar cheese
1.0
Kidneys, beef
31.0
Beef, lean
1.8
Cottage cheese
1.0
Liver, chicken
25.0
Edam cheese
1.8
Mozzarella cheese
1.0
Oysters
18.0
Swiss cheese
1.8
Halibut
1.0
Sardines
17.0
Brie cheese
1.6
Perch, filets
1.0
Trout
5.0
Gruyere cheese
1.6
Swordfish
REFERENCES
Garrison, R & Somer, E. The Nutrition Desk Reference. New Canaan, CN: Keats Publishing, 1995.
Hendler, S. The Doctor’s Vitamin and Mineral Encyclopedia. New York: Simon & Schuster, 1990.
Janson, M. The Vitamin Revolution. Greenville, NH: Arcadia Press, 1996.
Kirschmann, G & J, Nutrition Almanac 4th ed. New York: McGraw Hill, 1996.
Murray, M. Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine. 2nd ed. Rocklin, CA: Prima Publishing, 1998.
Murray, M. Encyclopedia of Nutritional Supplements. Rocklin, CA: Prima Publishing, 1996.
Recommended Dietary Allowances 10th ed. Washington, D.C.: National Academy Press, 1989.
Somer, E. The Essential Guide to Vitamins and Minerals. New York: HarperCollins, 1995.
Werbach, M. Healing Through Nutrition. New York: HarperCollins, 1993.
Werbach, M. Nutritional Influences on Illness. 2nd ed. Tarzana CA: Third Line Pre
HansNZ
New member
JohnnyB#12 said:
This is an anti-vegetarian myth. B12 is being found in heaps more plants all the time. Sprouts and mushrooms are two examples. If you want high amounts of B12 then nothing beats spirulina.
Vegetarians don't have to supplement anything, but anti-vegetarian myths and prejudices are just as insidious as anti-steroid ones.
