Vitamin B12 is a micronutrient that is produced by bacteria in the gut to some extent. The real truth is that all plant sources lack B12 due to which the Indian population, especially vegans, are at higher risk of developing B12 deficiency. It’s a micronutrient with huge roles which if untreated would cause a major disaster to the entire human body functioning!
Many people think that B12 is deficient only in vegans and vegetarians. Anyone can be at risk, for example, if a person is having a sedentary lifestyle with poor dietary choices can also face deficiency. If a person is frequently consuming alcohol, they might also face this condition. Hormonal imbalance, stress, drug-nutrient interactions, severe weight loss, and intrinsic factors are also major contributors.
Today’s generation needs quick results and quick solutions as well. If they find they are deficient in any vitamin whether it's vitamin D or B12, without thinking they switch to shots but don’t work on dietary sources which are readily available through dietary sources. It’s very important to consult an experienced physician or dietician since they can help with correct dosages through the correct medium.
Also, it’s believed that B12 boosts energy metabolism BUT not alone! Proper balanced nutrition, 3 hourly meal gaps, and good quality sleep are also one of the major factors which enhance energy metabolism. If still energy levels are low, then multivitamins can be added post consulting someone experienced.
The vegan population presumes that they can meet their B12 requirements through diet alone which is the biggest myth of all since the readily absorbed forms are met through animal products only. Fortified cereals, yeasts, spirulina, and soybean along with a proper dosage of supplementation will help them to eliminate symptoms of B12 deficiency.
By having supplementation also, some people think that even if the overdosage is happening of this micronutrient, it will create harm to the body which is false. B12 is a water-soluble vitamin, if it’s consumed in excess it’s thrown out of the body.
Nutrition and diet
Geeta is extremely knowledgeable when it comes to right kind of diet. She has an extensive knowledge about food science which reflects in her blogs. She believes in providing most authenticated inf... Read More
