vitamin b12 - cobalamin

Question 1

What are some sources of vitamin B12?

Answer 1

• meat
• dairy
• eggs
• liver
• yogurt
• fish
• beef
• lamb
• yeast
• nuts
• green leafy vegetables
• asparagus
• mushrooms

These sources are rich in vitamin B12 and are important for dietary intake.

Question 2

What are key roles of vitamin B12 in the body?

Answer 2

• energy production
• neurological development
• red blood cell synthesis
• DNA synthesis
• neurological function
• methionine/homocysteine metabolism
• folate metabolism

Folate needs vitamin B12 to activate, making it crucial for many bodily functions.

Question 3

What is the absorption process of vitamin B12?

Answer 3

Vitamin B12 binds with HAPTOCORRIN, pancreatic enzymes release it from HAPTOCORRIN, and it then binds with intrinsic factor for absorption to the liver.

This process is essential for effective utilization of vitamin B12 in the body.

Question 4

What are the types of vitamin B12?

Answer 4

• methylcobalamin
• deoxyadenosylcobalamin

These forms of vitamin B12 are involved in various biochemical processes.

Question 5

What are signs of vitamin B12 deficiency?

Answer 5

• megaloblastic anaemia
• fatigue
• weakness
• neuropathy in hands and feet
• memory loss
• inflamed tongue

These symptoms can significantly affect quality of life and health.

Question 6

What factors increase the demand for vitamin B12?

Answer 6

• folate deficiency
• veganism
• life stages
• previous anaemia
• alcohol
• drugs (OCP, PPI, Metformin)

These factors can lead to an increased need for vitamin B12 supplementation or consumption.

Question 7

What occurs in stage 1 of vitamin B12 deficiency?

Answer 7

Decrease in blood serum B12.

This initial stage may not present overt symptoms but can indicate a developing deficiency.

Question 8

What occurs in stage 2 of vitamin B12 deficiency?

Answer 8

Low concentration in cells.

This stage reflects a more significant depletion of B12 within the body.

Question 9

What occurs in stage 3 of vitamin B12 deficiency?

Answer 9

Raised homocysteine levels.

Elevated homocysteine is a risk factor for cardiovascular diseases and can indicate metabolic dysfunction.

Question 10

What occurs in stage 4 of vitamin B12 deficiency?

Answer 10

• macrocytic anaemia
• nerve damage

This advanced stage can lead to severe health issues and requires immediate medical attention.