B12 Injection
B12 or Vitamin B12 is a water-soluble vitamin. It exists in several forms and mostly contains the cobalt mineral. Due to this, Vitamin B12 is also known as cobalamin. It naturally occurs in some foods and can be added to others; it is also available as a dietary supplement. No animal, plant or fungi can produce B12. It’s created as a result of enzyme action that is found in bacteria and archaea. This can be manufactured and produced via bacterial fermentation. Proven foods that contain B12 are animal products.
What is a B12 Injection?
This is an injection that contains doses of Vitamin B12 used to increase B12 levels in people with the deficiency. Vitamin B12 deficiency causes several complications such as; weakness, tiredness, constipation, loss of appetite, megaloblastic anemia, and weight loss. Other symptoms can include; numbness and tingling especially in the hands and feet, problems with balance, confusion, depression, soreness of the mouth or tongue and even dementia. The deficiency can be caused by vegetarian diets that lack B12 supplements and poor Vitamin B12 absorption.
Uses of B12
B12 is a crucial vitamin since it is a necessity for vital hormonal and metabolic activities that occur in the body. Its uses include:
- Maintaining a healthy digestive system. B12 facilitates the production of digestive enzymes and also carrying nutrients in and out of the cells.
- It helps in converting and synthesizing compounds within the body. Conversion of carbohydrates into glucose relies on vitamin B12; this leads to energy production. Lethargy and fatigue are also reduced.
- Helps with cardiovascular health since Vitamin B12 acts as a cofactor for methionine synthase this curbs heart disease, protects against stroke, and improves unhealthy cholesterol levels.
- Increases the level of red blood cells. B12 helps in synthesizing hemoglobin which is a basic compound for the formation of the red blood cells.
- B12 also helps in healthy regulation of the nervous system. This includes reducing brain shrinkage, depression, and stress.
Risks of Taking B12 Injections
- Interacting with certain Medications:when administered in high doses, Vitamin B12 interacts with other medications and also interfere with other vitamins and enzymes. Such medications include; antibiotics, diabetic prescriptions, metformin, and proton pump inhibitors.
- Absorption problems: depending on levels of acids and other metabolic cofactors, individuals may still have a deficiency due to vitamin B12 absorption problems in the body.
Conclusion
Vitamin B12 injection is a necessity for people with the deficiency of the B12.
