B12 Deficiency: Cardiologist Explains the Vital Role of the Essential Vitamin and Its Impact on Energy, Heart, and Brain Health

Experiencing persistent fatigue? Feeling drained even after sufficient rest? This could be a sign of an underlying vitamin B12 deficiency. This essential nutrient plays a critical role in various bodily functions, including DNA synthesis, energy production, and maintaining a healthy nervous system.

According to a 2019 study, approximately 47% of the Indian population suffers from vitamin B12 deficiency. Dr. Alok Chopra, a leading cardiologist and functional medicine expert, emphasizes the significance of vitamin B12, its sources, and the potential risks associated with its deficiency, particularly among vegetarians.

What is Vitamin B12?

Vitamin B12 is a water-soluble vitamin vital for numerous bodily processes. Dr. Chopra states, "It is essential for metabolism, digestion, and overall health." It is naturally found in certain foods and is also available as a dietary supplement or prescription medication.

Sources of Vitamin B12

Vitamin B12 is naturally present in animal products such as fish, poultry, eggs, and milk. However, it is generally absent in plant-based foods unless they are fortified. "Vegetarians often face challenges in obtaining sufficient B12," Dr. Chopra notes.

While plant-based foods typically lack B12, fortified options like nutritional yeast and some cereals can be reliable sources. Dr. Chopra suggests that vegetarians consider taking supplements or consuming B12-fortified products to meet their daily requirements.

Functions of Vitamin B12

Vitamin B12 is crucial for several vital functions in the body:

• Red Blood Cell Production: It plays a key role in the production of healthy red blood cells, preventing megaloblastic anemia.
• DNA Synthesis: It aids in the replication and maintenance of DNA within cells.
• Nervous System Health: Vitamin B12 supports the proper functioning of the nervous system and maintains the health of nerve cells.
• Energy Production: It helps convert carbohydrates into glucose, providing energy for the body.
• Brain Health: It boosts memory, focus, and overall cognitive function, potentially reducing the risk of neurodegenerative diseases.
• Heart Health: Vitamin B12 helps regulate homocysteine levels in the blood, reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
• Other Benefits: It contributes to mood regulation, bone health, skin, hair, and nail health, and strengthens the immune system.

Signs of Vitamin B12 Deficiency

Despite its importance, vitamin B12 deficiency is quite common. Some of the symptoms include:

• Fatigue
• Pale or yellow skin
• Headaches
• Depressive symptoms
• Gastrointestinal issues
• Difficulty focusing
• Glossitis and mouth ulcers
• Weight loss
• General feeling of unwellness

Dr. Chopra advises, "Deficiency can be addressed through proper nutrition, intramuscular injections, or oral B12 therapy."

However, he also cautions against excessive vitamin B12 intake. "Overuse can lead to diarrhea, itching, rashes, headache, dizziness, nausea, and heart failure. Individuals with optic neuropathy, polycythemia, gout, iron or folate deficiency, and low potassium levels should consult a doctor."

Interactions with Other Nutrients

It's important to be mindful of combining vitamin B12 supplements with other nutrients. Dr. Chopra advises against taking vitamin B12 supplements with vitamin D. " Vitamin B12 and D should not be taken together as vitamin D is fat soluble and is absorbed better with food, and B12 is water soluble and taken on an empty stomach. The same applies to vitamin C," he explains.