What Are The Health Benefits of Vitamin B12?

Various vitamins and minerals are needed so that the body can function properly. Perhaps one of the most taken for granted essential vitamins is vitamin B12. Also known as cobalamin, vitamin B12 is just one of the B complex vitamins. The other B complex vitamins are B1 (thiamine), B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin), B5 (pantothenic acid), B6 (pyridoxine), B7 (biotin), and B9 (folic acid or folate). Generally, the B complex vitamins help in converting carbohydrates into glucose, which the body uses to produce energy. So what are the health benefits of Vitamin B12?

One of the important uses of B12 is that it aids in the replication of DNA for new cells. This means that B12 deficiency can lead to the abnormal replication of DNA. As a result, new and healthy cells cannot be generated, and this can lead to various medical conditions and illnesses. The vitamin is also needed for the production of red blood cells and for iron to work better in the body. In addition, it supports normal function of nerve cells. In fact, long-term deficiency of the substance can result to permanent nerve damage, so it is important to detect vitamin B12 deficiency as early as possible.

There are various symptoms of Vitamin B12 deficiency. These include overall weakness, fatigue, irritability and mood changes, numbness or tingling in hands or feet, and irritation of the mouth and the tongue. Moreover, the most serious sign of lack of the substance is impaired brain function. Another thing that should be taken into consideration is that among the B complex vitamins, only B12 can prevent dementia.

To avoid the effects of lack of Vitamin B12, one should make sure his or her diet includes foods that are good sources of the vitamin. It is mostly found in animal foods, such as meat, shellfish, eggs, poultry, milk, and milk products. However, some people do not absorb the appropriate amount of B12 needed by the body because of their diet or because of certain medical conditions such as gastritis and pancreatic disease. Thus, taking Vitamin B12 complex dietary supplement helps prevent B12 deficiency.

Many of the vitamins and minerals that the body needs to keep it healthy are unknown to many. They tend to focus only on one or two that they think are more important. Vitamin B12, for instance, is overlooked, yet it performs essential functions to keep the body healthy. This is one good reason why people should get themselves informed especially when it comes to their health.

More health tips are available at Choice Nutrition Supplements

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sherry_R_Bray

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7978655

Advantages and Disadvantages of Using Garcinia Cambogia for Weight Loss

Let's start by discussing some of the benefits of garcinia cambogia. This all natural supplement serves the body in the following ways:

A Fat Blocker

Hydroxycitric acid (HCA), a citric acid byproduct, is the main active ingredient in Garcinia Cambogia extract. HCA blocks fat by inhibiting the efforts of citrate lyase, an important metabolic enzyme. This is one of the reasons that Garcinia is so successful as a weight loss supplement.

An Appetite Suppressant

A second important aspect of Hydroxycitric acid is its ability to suppress the appetite. It does this by increasing serotonin levels in the body. Serotonin is an important brain chemical that acts as a neurotransmitter. It is responsible for a number of regulatory processes that affect appetite and mood. You will not feel the urge to eat more than what is necessary to maintain a healthy weight.

A Metabolism Booster

One of the greatest benefits of Garcinia Cambogia is the ability to create a more efficient metabolism. The metabolic process is actually a sequence of chemical reactions that keep the body in a constant state of imbalance. HCA helps to balance these reactions and make the process more efficient.

As a result, the body uses more energy than it takes in. This causes it to tap the fat stores for fuel. This extraordinary supplement reduces fat and keeps excess weight down.

A Blood Cholesterol Reducing Agent

As HCA stops the citrate lyase enzyme from transforming sugars into fats, it blocks fat production and storage. At the same time, it reduces the amount of lipids in the blood stream. It lowers production of bad cholesterol and increases the production of good cholesterol.

So, when you take a Pure Garcinia Cambogia capsule, you are in fact waging a war against fat cells which are clinging stubbornly to your vital organs. These fat cells are harmful to your body and contribute to worse health.

A few things to be aware of:

• Caution is advised in patients with diabetes (high blood sugar) or hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), and in those taking drugs, herbs, or supplements that can affect blood sugar.


• Rhabdomyolysis (serious and potentially fatal disease involving degeneration of skeletal muscle) has been reported three hours after ingestion of a weight-loss herbal medicine containing a combination of ma huang (ephedrine), guarana (active alkaloid caffeine), chitosan, Gymnenasylvestre, Garciniacambogia (50% HCA), and chromium.


• Garcinia is not recommended for use in pregnant or breastfeeding women due to a lack of available scientific evidence. Plus, you don't want your baby's appetite being suppressed!


• As mentioned above, Garcinia Extract may lower blood sugar levels so caution is advised when using medications that can lower blood sugar. Patients taking drugs for diabetes should be monitored closely by a qualified healthcare professional, including a pharmacist. Medication adjustments may be necessary.

Read more about the all natural Garcinia Cambogia supplement by visiting our website.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Diane_Peterson

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7940248