Vitamin B12 is an important B vitamin. It is one of the most important vitamins in maintaining the nervous system, and also plays a crucial role in a variety of bodily processes, including:
- Normal functioning of the brain and nervous system
- Cognitive functioning (ability to think)
- Formation of red blood cells and anemia prevention
- Helping create and regulate DNA
- Helping protect the eyes from macular degeneration
- Energy production
However, despite its importance, in the United States and United Kingdom, approximately six per cent of adults aged 60 or younger have a vitamin B12 deficiency. The rate jumps to 20 per cent in people older than 60.
