B-12 plays a role in human metabolism, red blood cell formation and serves a major role in several other bodily functions. Serum levels below 170-250 pg/ml indicates B-12 deficiency. Readily available fortified breakfast cereals are an excellent source of B-12 as well as nutritional yeast that may be added to other foods, therefore, it is very possible for the average vegan to avoid B-12 deficiency. The consumption of fortified breakfast cereal at least four times per week is considered adequate for the average adult to maintain adequate B-12 levels.
Dietary supplements as well as intramuscular injections are often required for adequate B-12 intake. People with certain intestinal disorders may have problems absorbing B-12 from food sources. Numbness and tingling of the hands, anemia, fatigue, weakness, constipation, soreness of the mouth and tongue, weight loss and loss of appetite are physical symptoms resulting from B-12 deficiency. However, dementia, confusion, lack of balance, poor memory and depression are also associated with B-12 deficiency.
To avoid irreversible neurological damage, early intervention is necessary. Senior citizens, patients with pernicious anemia, individuals that have undergone gastrointestinal surgery or have gastrointestinal disorders, as well as pregnant and lactating mothers are at high risk for vitamin B-12 deficiency. B-12 supplements may improve cognitive abilities and increase energy levels improving a person's sense of well being for individuals in these categories. So don't forget the breakfast cereal!
Royalty-free pic courtesy of 123rf.com.
-
So good to be back online! Hello to all my Flaming Vegan Friends. Just wanted to let you know that the move went well. We are living in a large farmhouse in the middle of the country. Ran over a skunk last week on the way home from work. Found out that Extra Strength Febreeze will get the odor out! Thank goodness! A couple of weeks ago we were sitting on the front porch one night and heard the coyotes. My husband was afraid that I was going to break the door down getting inside the house. LOL! The job is going well! Please let me hear from you!
-
Poor skunk! Obviously you didn't do it on purpose though. Voted. Very informative and important blog, welcome back! I take a B12 supplement, but breakfast cereal is a great idea for getting enough of this essential vitamin.
-
Veganara, the smell was awful! So glad to hear from you!
-
-
-
Good to see you back! Entire Vitamin B complex is very essential for our health!
-
Yes, you are right! Thanks for the vote and comment!
-
-
voted! nice to see you again :)
-
Thanks Kristo! Good to see that you are still active on the Flaming Vegan. Are you writing for the OFHORSE site?
-
-
glad u r back ...voted
-
Thanks Charlotte!
-
-
Welcome back! So cereal is typically fortified with B12? I'll have to check if the Colombian-made ones are, because I actually can't afford to buy the imported American stuff here. And anyways, they don't import organics in Cartagena, so I wouldn't like it, anyways. Voted!
-
Thanks! SnakeWitch, sorry about the fortified cereal not being available in Canada. I did not know that. Good to hear from you!
-
No, still in Colombia. Am in love... you see....
-
-
-
Hi Carolyn.....nice to see u back, dear :) Great info on B-12.......Thnz...voted!
-
Thanks for the vote! Glad to be back online.
-