Article Surfing Archive

The elderly, vegetarians and people with some specific illnesses can suffer from a Vitamin B12 deficiency, and today many foods that form to make the average diet also have too low levels. Problems that can arise through having a vitamin B12 intake that is not high enough include feeling weak, fatigued, paranoid or mentally impaired as well as damaged nerves, pernicious anemia, delirium and CFS (Chronic Fatigue Syndrome).

Certain studies have indicated that if your vitamin B12 levels are too low your homocysteine levels will be elevated. Homocysteine is an amino acid that is thought to be responsible for heart diseases, CFS and fibromyalgia. Alzheimer's and depression have been linked to high levels of the amino acid also. B12 is largely responsible for preventing these homocysteines from getting out of hand and causing problems.

Anywhere up to a quarter of the American population over eighty could possibly have this deficiency. This is the belief of The Jack Miller Center for Peripheral Neuropathy at the University of Chicago, who also teaches their students that those who have strict vegetarian diets are commonly lacking in the vitamin also. Although vegetables canbe a good source of B12 vitamins, their content is lower so the amount needing to be consumed is much higher than for those who eat meats and dairy. Vegetarians should definitely take supplements every day.

Studies conducted in America indicate that any person who has a deficiency of B12 vitamin will be two times at least more likely to get depression. Those who have sufficient levels were considerably less predisposed to it, and reported feeling overall more calm and capable. This is due to the fact that B12 has many important roles in maintaining brain health and manufacturing brain chemicals. For more info see http://www.omegaflaxseedoil.com/benefits/omega3/diseases_Related_To_A_Deficiency_In_Omega_3.html

Food that is rich in B12 should play a large role in your diet every day. These are foods such as dairy, eggs, pork, organ meats, fish and beef, and if taken with a good B12 supplement, should resolve your problem or prevent you from developing one. Another solution to a B12 deficiency is to have a B12 injection, which you can ask your doctor about.

Many people have a deficiency in vitamin B12 but think they are simply run down and overworked. By taking a good B complex that covers all B vitamins and folic acid, you will feel less stressed, have more energy and avoid the many health issues that come with not getting enough through food. By keeping the B12 levels up, the homocysteine levels will stay in check and you will lead a healthy, happy life free from the high risk of depression and ill health.