Vitamin B12 is required for the formation of red blood cells and is a key component that helps with the proper functioning of brain and nerve cells. Also known as cobalamin, vitamin B12 is found naturally in animal foods.
At least 2.4 micrograms of vitamin B12 should be taken daily. According to a report from Harvard Medical School, during pregnancy and breast-feeding, the amount should be increased to 2.6 micrograms and 2.8 micrograms, respectively.
Vitamin B12 is found in abundance in fish, liver, red meat, eggs, poultry, dairy products such as milk, fortified nutritional yeast and fortified breakfast cereals.
Inadequate intake of animal products, lack of intrinsic factor that facilitates absorption of the vitamin, low acid in the stomach either due to a biological cause or a drug, and any other digestive disorder are some of the causes of vitamin B12. decrease in the body.