Friday Food Fact: Vitamin B12

Vitamin B12

You might have heard about this essential vitamin in health class, at your nutritionist, from your doctor, a coach, or maybe even in one of the famous Roger Clemens testimonials. What's certain is that B12 is an essential vitamin humans need to sustain a healthy life.

Effects of B12:

• Supports the production of red blood cells which helps prevent anemia.
• Helps our cells metabolize proteins, carbohydrates as well as fats.
  
• The Mayo Clinic states it, "helps maintain healthy nerve cells and red blood cells and is also needed to make DNA, the genetic material in all cells."

Best sources of B12 include Sardines, Venison, Shrimp, Scallops, Salmon, Beef, Lamb, Cod, milk and eggs. The book 'The World's Healthiest Foods' by George Mateljan says, "Vegans must pay attention to their intake of vitamin B12 since this vitamin occurs primarily in animal foods..." In order for vegans to ensure they are getting an adequate amount of B12 you may want to consult a doctor and/or nutritionist to see if a B12 supplement is suitable for you.

An interesting fact...George Mateljan also states, "vitamin B12 cannot be made by animals or plants, but only by microorganisms, like bacteria. When plant foods are fermented with the use of B12-producing bacteria, they end up containing B12."