Two-thirds of our immune system is said to be linked to our digestive system. That’s also a meaningful indication of its vital role in nutrient uptake, which varies according to digestive efficiency. Important functions of Vitamin B12 involve cell division, nerve health and blood formation. Nerve health means it’s really important for brain function. We don’t need much, but it’s vital we have it. B12 also works to decrease homocysteine, reducing the possibility of both heart disease and weakened arteries.
If you’re a meat-eater, it’s surprising to hear a blood analysis showed a vitamin B12 deficiency once you know the highest source is meat, but it happens. Pernicious anemia is a decrease in red blood cells and the oxygen they transport for cellular metabolism, resulting in low energy and fatigue. It occurs when the stomach doesn’t produce enough intrinsic factor to enable B12 absorption. When digestive function is strained, early indicators include frequent bloating, gas, cramps, constipation or diarrhea. Any of these conditions can indicate reduced function of nutrient absorption.
Deficiency symptoms of B12 include a sore and red tongue, tingling or numbness in the feet or hands, nervousness, heart palpitations, depression and memory problems. A water-soluble vitamin, there is little worry about over-dosing this vitamin because excess is easily excreted.
The suggestion to choose food sources for better vitamin B12 levels is dependent upon our digestive system health. Intrinsic factor is an enzyme-like protein produced by the same cells in our stomach that produce gastric juice for digestion. Sublingual B12 as Methylcobalamin is a superior choice for supplementation because it’s not dependent upon digestive uptake, which may be impaired. It’s said that up to 50% of elderly people are deficient in B12!
Foods with good vitamin B12 content include meat, poultry, shellfish and eggs or dairy, with sardines and salmon reported as highest fish sources. Non-animal B12 sources for vegans list Red Star Vegetarian Support Formula or T-6635 plus nutritional yeast (a little less than 1 tablespoon provides the adult RDA, preferably taken in a milk base like almond or organic soy for superior absorption).
Examining unhealthy food choices for improved nutrition can enable return to good digestive function before early signals of its stress escalate into disease.
