What is Vitamin B12? | An Easy Guide To Vitamin B12 | Zooki

Vitamin B12, or cobalamin, is an essential nutrient that helps keep our bodies healthy and strong. It has a unique structure with a cobalt atom at its center, which is why it's called "cobalamin."
This amazing vitamin plays a key role in keeping our cells working smoothly. It helps with DNA creation, forming red blood cells, and keeping our nervous system in top shape. If we don't get enough B12, we might experience anemia, nerve issues, or even cognitive problems.
But here's the catch: our bodies can't make B12 on their own. We need to get it from the food we eat. You can find B12 in animal-based foods like meat, fish, dairy, and eggs. For those with special diets, there are also fortified foods and supplements available to help meet your B12 needs.
Getting B12 from our food into our bodies isn't always straightforward. A protein called intrinsic factor, made in our stomach, helps B12 absorption in the small intestine. Sometimes, factors like aging, medications, or digestive problems can interfere with this process, causing a deficiency. So, it's essential to be mindful of our B12 intake to stay healthy and energised!