Healthy Eating & Vitamin B-12

Vitamin B-12 is a necessary vitamin to help the body to make DNA, maintain the nervous system, and the formation of red blood cells. Vitamin B-12 is stored in the liver for up to 5 days.  The amount of B-12 necessary by the body is not much and is measured in micro-grams, but unfortunately the most readily available sources is from eating animal-based foods. But where do the animals get it, since animals or people cannot make it themself?

Research has found that natural bacteria in the environment produces vitamin B-12 when ingested. The B-12 is transferred from the bacteria on the plants to  the animals or people who eat the plant. The B-12 then is absorbed in the gut when the bacterium and stomach acid mix.Then the B-12 is absorbed into the blood system and accumulates in the liver, becoming available for usage by the body. Before the invention of sanitary water systems, the sanitizing of produce and exposures of soils to antibiotics and pesticides, natural bacterium sources were more available on vegetable matter in the garden and in natural drinking water sources. These sources allowed B-12 to be created within the small intestines of people.

There are still natural sources of B-12 found on certain mushrooms and seaweeds.  The commercial industry has replicated this bacteria process by fermenting the “Streptomycin griseus” bacterium. Using the crystalline form of B-12 is actually better then animal form which is bound to proteins making it more difficult for the body to process, leading to deficiency (yes, in carnivores). Absorption issues are the major source for Vitamin B-12 deficiencies. Those taking antacids, or long term PPIs, suffering from H. pylori infections, drinking alcohol, smoking, or have a slow moving digestive system are more prone to B-12 deficiencies.

Symptoms of Vitamin B-12 deficiency can include fatigue, weakness, lightheadedness, loss of appetite, shortness of breath, numbness, and memory problems. If you experience these type of symptoms, speak with your doctor about having your B-12 levels checked.