Vitamin B12

vitamin B12

Vitamin B12 is a water-soluble vitamin that your body needs for making red blood cells and keeping nerves healthy. It helps build DNA and supports many energy-producing processes inside cells. Without enough B12 you can feel tired, weak, or have pale skin because your body cannot make healthy red blood cells. Long-term deficiency can cause numbness, tingling, balance problems, and memory or thinking difficulties. The vitamin is mostly found in animal foods like meat, fish, eggs, and dairy, and people who avoid these foods often need fortified foods or supplements. Some people also have trouble absorbing B12 from food because of age, certain medical conditions, or medications, so they may need higher doses or injections. B12 plays a role in keeping a chemical called homocysteine at healthy levels, which is linked to blood vessel and heart health. Doctors can check B12 levels with a blood test and treat low levels with oral supplements or injections depending on the cause. Because it affects energy, brain function, and nerve health, maintaining adequate B12 is important at all ages and especially during pregnancy and older adulthood. If you have ongoing fatigue, numbness, or memory changes, a simple check of B12 can help find a reversible cause.