Role of Vitamin B12 in Bodily Functions
Vitamin B12 is responsible for multiple functions in the body.
Vitamin B12 works together with folate in the synthesis of DNA and red blood cells. It is involved in the production of myelin sheath around the nerves, and the conduction of nerve impulses. B12 deficiency could lead to pernicious anemia. It is an autoimmune condition where the body destroys a protein (intrinsic factor) necessary for the absorption of B12.
But anemia is the final stage of B12 deficiency. Long before anemia sets in, B12 deficiency causes other problems, including fatigue, lethargy, weakness, memory loss and neurological and psychiatric problems.
The deficiency occurs gradually. The following changes occur before anemia sets in:
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- Decline in the serum B12 levels.
- Low cellular concentrations of B12
- An increased blood level of homocysteine, which is associated with heart disease
- Decreased rate of DNA synthesis
- Macrocytic / Pernicious anemia
