Vitamin B12

Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is a water-soluble vitamin that the body cannot synthesise on its own. It is found mainly in animal-based foods such as meat, fish, eggs and dairy products. The body stores only small amounts in the liver, making a regular dietary intake essential. From a physiological standpoint, vitamin B12 contributes to normal energy metabolism and to the normal formation of red blood cells. It also plays a role in the normal functioning of the nervous system, supporting the maintenance of neuronal cells, and contributes to normal neurological and psychological functions. In addition, it helps reduce tiredness and fatigue, and supports the normal function of the immune system. Supplementation with vitamin B12 is of particular interest to people following a vegetarian or vegan diet, who are at greater risk of insufficient intake, as well as to older adults, whose intestinal absorption capacity tends to decline with age. It is often combined with other B vitamins to help optimise its assimilation.