Vitamin B12

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Vitamin B12

Vitamin B12 (cyanocobalamin) is important in the formation of all cells in the body, especially red blood cells and the covering of nerve cells (myelin). The body needs myelin for nerves to function properly.

Vitamin B12 is found in animal products such as meat, shellfish, milk, cheese, and eggs. Most people who eat meat are not likely to develop a vitamin B12 deficiency. There is normally enough vitamin B12 stored in a person's liver to last a year, even if the person does not eat any foods that contain the vitamin during that time.

Some people have a disease that makes their bodies unable to absorb vitamin B12. These people need either an injection of B12 once a month, to take high-dose B12 pills, or to use a nasal spray containing B12.

Strict vegetarians (vegans) who do not eat meat, milk, cheese, or eggs are at risk for developing vitamin B12 deficiency. They should take a vitamin supplement containing vitamin B12.

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Author	Jeannette Curtis
Author	Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Editor	Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Editor	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor	Tracy Landauer
Associate Editor	Pat Truman, MATC
Primary Medical Reviewer	Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer	Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Last Updated	May 25, 2007

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Last updated:	May 25, 2007
Author:	Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Reviewed By:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Pat Truman, MATC

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