Vitamin B12 – Cobalamin, cyanocobamin

 Vitamin B12 is a water-soluble vitamin. B12 works in conjunction other B group vitamins, Vitamin C, iron, calcium, sodium and potassium.

Functions
Vitamin B12:
Is necessary for production of neurotransmitters
Stimulates the brain
Prevents heart disease
Decreases risk of cancer
Stimulates red blood cell production
Contributes to healthy nerves
Stimulates appetite
Promotes growth

Sources of Vitamin B12:
Vitamin B12 is only found in animal products, however it can be manufactured in the body.
Very small amounts are required.

Deficiency symptoms:
Dizziness
Anxiety
Lethargy
Weight loss
Tinnitus
Pernicious anemia
Loss of balance
Oversensitivity to hot/cold

Cobalamin may be lacking in people whole follow a strict vegan or macrobiotic diet. Always check with your doctor before taking supplements of any kind. An excess of any vitamin can have unpleasant side effects. The water soluble vitamins are readily excreted in urine, so toxicity is rare.