12-things about B12

Vitamin B12- It is a water soluble vitamin which is also known as cobalamin.

- Shylasree

Forms- Cobalamin is of two types namely cyanocobalamin methylcobalamin and Cyanocobalamin methylcobalamin is the synthetic form whereas is the natural one.

RDA-The required dietary allowance for Vitamin B12 is 2.4 micrograms per day for adults. This vitamin is required in small quantity but plays a very significant role in regulatory activities in the body.

Functions B12 plays major role in proper functioning of the nervous system, production of DNA and red blood cells, maintenance of gut health, release of energy from food, reactivation of folic acid (Vitamin b9) etc.

Absorption- B12 is absorbed in ileum which is the part of small intestine.

Bioavailability- Methylcobalamin has a better bioavailability since it is the natural form of B12. Cyanocobalamin when consumed, needs to get converted to methylcobalamin before the body absorbs it.