Vitamin B12

What is vitamin B12? Vitamin B12 (cobalamin) is a water soluble vitamin required for several physiological processes, including normal nervous system functioning, and red blood cell development and maturation. It has antioxidant effects, is a co-factor in mitochondrial energy metabolism, and contributes to DNA synthesis, the methylation cycle, and epigenetic regulation. ^{1 2} B12 is present in foods of animal origin, such as meat, eggs, and milk, or via food fortification. Healthy adults require an average intake of 4-7 mcg daily to maintain B12 status. ³ 4 Indications for B12 treatment, administration routes, and preparations Treatment with B12 may be required for a variety of reasons (table 1).