Vitamin B12 is necessary for both haemoglobin production and the functioning of the nervous system. Deficiency results in Anaemia and lack of co-ordination; it may not always be caused by lack of B12 in the diet, but by inadequate absorption of the vitamin from the intestine.
Sources Offal, fish, pork, eggs, cheese, yoghurt, milk and brewer's yeast
Supplements Available Tablets from health food shops and chemists. Injections from doctor.
DRV* Children 0.3-1 mg Women 1.2-1.5 mg Lactating mothers 1.7-2.0 mg Men 1.2-1.5 mg
Important Notes Dosages advised are deliberately on the safe side and may not be high enough to give benefit, but it is recommended that higher dosages should only be taken under the care of a practitioner experienced in nutritional medicine.
* for explanation, please see Introduction to Nutritional Supplements |