Vitamin B12, Cyanocobalamin, Cobalamin​​​​​​​, E101, 68-19-9

Vitamin B12, Cyanocobalamin, Cobalamin, E101, 68-19-9

Vitamin B12 (Cyanocobalamin / Cobalamin)

• CAS Number: 68-19-9

• Molecular Formula: C₆₃H₈₈CoN₁₄O₁₄P

• Nature: Water-soluble vitamin, not produced by the body, found mainly in animal-based foods.

• Functions:

  • Red blood cell formation

  • Nervous system health (myelin synthesis)

  • DNA synthesis

  • Cell metabolism

Benefits

• Maintains healthy blood and nerve cells

• Prevents megaloblastic anemia (causing fatigue and weakness)

• Supports memory, learning, and cognitive function

• Works with folic acid to prevent anemia

• Reduces homocysteine levels → lowers risk of heart disease

• Improves energy metabolism (carbohydrates → energy)

• Supports skin, hair, and nail health

Deficiency & Symptoms

• Main cause: Poor diet, absorption problems, certain medications

• Key symptoms:

  • Anemia, fatigue, paleness, shortness of breath, irregular heartbeat

  • Numbness/tingling in hands and feet, walking difficulties, muscle weakness

  • Memory loss, concentration problems, mood changes (depression, irritability)

  • Gastrointestinal issues (nausea, diarrhea, constipation, appetite loss, weight loss)

  • Mouth ulcers, swollen tongue, hair loss, vision problems

Sources

• Animal-based foods: Red meat, poultry, fish (salmon, sardines, tuna, trout), shellfish, organ meats (liver, kidney), eggs, milk, yogurt, cheese

• Plant-based options: Fermented soy products (limited)

• Note: Fruits and vegetables generally do not contain B12. Claims about apples, bananas, avocados, blueberries, mangoes containing B12 are scientifically disputed.

Risk Groups

• People over 50 (absorption decreases with age)

• Vegans and vegetarians (no animal products in diet)

• Patients with pernicious anemia (lack of intrinsic factor protein)

• Those with gastrointestinal surgery or diseases (Crohn’s, celiac, gastritis)

• Heavy alcohol users

• Long-term users of stomach acid reducers or metformin (diabetes medication)

• Pregnant women and children with poor nutrition

Treatment

• Oral supplements (tablets, sublingual): For mild deficiency

• Injections: For absorption problems (stomach/intestinal issues)

• Daily requirement: 2–3 mcg (higher in pregnancy and breastfeeding)

• Normal blood level: 200–800 pg/mL

  • <200 pg/mL = deficiency

  • 200–300 pg/mL = borderline

Additional Notes

• Untreated deficiency can cause irreversible neurological damage.

• Excess B12 is not harmful; stored in the liver and excreted in urine.

• No toxicity risk, but rare side effects include acne.

• Effect on dementia/Alzheimer’s prevention is not proven.