Vitamin B12 is normally involved in the metabolism of each and every cell of the body. It is one of the water-soluble vitamins which means it circulates through the bloodstream.
It has a major role in formation of blood cells, functioning of nervous system and brain too. Basically, Vitamin B12 can only be produced by bacteria by its specific enzyme. It is produced by the bacteria present in the gut of the herbivores, and carnivores eat herbivores.
Who are at high risk of deficiency?
A Cobalamin or Vitamin B12 deficiency is one of the leading nutrient deficiencies in the world. Vitamin B12 is found in animal products like meat, eggs, dairy products or shellfish. Most of the people, especially in India, don’t get enough B12 as they are likely to be vegetarians. So, vegetarians and vegans are at high risk of deficiency. Also, due to aging, heartburn drugs or alcohol, stomach starts producing less acid, and this acid is the key for absorption of Vitamin B12. This can be one of the reasons for deficiency. Women who are on birth control pills have a high risk of not absorbing B12.
Specific symptoms may include:
· Depression
· Anxiety
· Poor dental health
· Abnormal heart problems like palpitations
· Tingling and numbness
Some of the initial symptoms are so commonly adapted by people in their day-to-day life that they have no idea if there is something wrong with them.
Treatment
It should involve proper diet, supplements as required and support of homoeopathic medicines as per the case.
Supplement
Most of the people are taking supplements but they don’t know which are really helpful. Synthetic form of Vitamin B12 is called cyanocobalamin. It actually has cyanide in it which is a toxic substance which can damage the body system.
Homoeopathy and Vitamin B12
Homoeopathy is a body-friendly medicine. It is like a support especially to our immune system. Any problem in the body starts when immunity gets affected or if tendencies are prevailing in the family. Homoeopathy can help in proper B12 absorption.
The Symptoms
Deficiency can cause a severe damage especially to the brain and nervous system. Because our body can store B12 for three to five years, early symptoms may appear gradually.
Fatigue, Breathlessness, Muscle aches, Dizziness, Poor memory and Lack of concentration
The writer is a senior homoeopath physician and runs the Aggarwal Homeo Clinic, New Delhi