Vitamin B12

Vitamin B12. Description, chemical formula, role and characteristics. Sources of Vitamin B12.

Vitamin B12, Cobalamin or Cyanocobalamin

Vitamin B12 is essential for the overall functioning of all cells and specifically for the formation of red blood cells in the bone marrow, is involved in the processes of the nervous system and the gastrointestinal tract.

It is essential in the formation of blood and certain macrocytic anemias will respond to treatment with this vitamin.

Not enough vitamin B12 is often due to the inability of the stomach to produce a glycoprotein which helps absorb the vitamin. The result is pernicious anemia, with the characteristic symptoms of poor production of red blood cells, defective synthesis of myelin and loss of the epithelium of the intestinal tract.
 
The main sources of vitamin B12 are from animal kingdom: liver, kidney, meat, fish, eggs and milk. Plant foods do not have enough content of cyanocobalamin for daily needs, so that people who follow a vegetarian diet are advised to take vitamin supplements.

See other infographics and videos in section

GRAPH

Other B Vitamins

Vitamin B1

Vitamin B2

Vitamin B3

Vitamin B6

Folic Acid

Vitamin B5 or Pantothenic Acid

See also

Introduction to vitamins

Vitamin A

Vitamin C

Vitamin D

Vitamin E

Vitamin K

Vitamin H

Cells