Vitamin B12 Benefits for your Brain and Cognitive Function

Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin), is a water soluble vitamin which has a key role in the normal functioning of the brain, nervous system, and the formulation of blood.

It is one of the 8 B vitamins and is involved in the metabolism of every cell in the human body.

Vitamin B12 offers an array of nootropic benefits both in terms of neuron development and maintenance as well as cognitive processes related to memory, learning, concentration and reasoning. It also has a role to play DNA synthesis and regulation, along with fatty acid synthesis and energy production.

Since this vitamin is water soluble the body is not capable of storing it for long periods of time. For this reason, we must consistently supply the body with B12 to avoid deficiency and ensure proper physiological function.

Vitamin B12 consists of a class of chemically related compounds which all have vitamin activity. This class also contains cobalt, a biologically rare element. This supplement is actually produced by bacteria, although the conversion between the various forms of Vitamin B12 can be accomplished by the human body.

Vitamin B12 was discovered from its relationship to an autoimmune disease called pernicious anemia, in which certain digestive cells in the stomach are destroyed.

Vitamin B12 Effects:

This supplement has the largest and most complex chemical structure of all the vitamins. Most supplemental forms of Vitamin B12 start their activity by being converted into two different chemicals and a number of enzymes which are then used by the body.

The body uses Vitamin B12 in the synthesis of different enzymes such as the enzyme required to make the the amino acid methionine (from homocysteine).

This also leads to the production of methyl-group donors that are important in the methylation of DNA and RNA. These reactions have been implicated in the prevention of cancer and may reduce the risk of developing cardiovascular disease.

There are a number of more basic and less chemically complex effects of Vitamin B12. This includes the ability to produce, or aid in the production of, red blood cells. It also supports the development of nerve cells and is required for healthy neurological function.

Additionally, this supplement enables cells to properly metabolize (or use) proteins, carbohydrates, and fats. As we have seen above, it also promotes balance and leads to healthy homocysteine levels, resulting in cardiovascular health and optimal blood sugar metabolism.

Vitamin B12 Benefits:

B12, or Cobalamin, is a necessary component of our diet for whole body health, but its benefits are particularly prevalent when it comes to brainpower. Using a B12 supplement has been shown to increase energy and overall alertness.

From a purely cognitive standpoint, this supplement can improve memory and fluid intelligence as well as increasing attention span and concentration. Many users have also reported more restful sleep, less stress and anxiety, and even enhanced moods while taking B12 capsules.

Vitamin B12 supplementation may lower levels of homocysteine, an amino acid that is thought to increase the risk of heart disease. Homocysteine is also associated with brain shrinkage which can lead to various signs of cognitive impairment such as Alzheimer’s.

In this respect, Vitamin B12 is linked to preventing brain shrinkage and may be able to slow down the onset of senile dementias. In one study, patients given Vitamin B6, B12 and folic acid saw as much as a 90% reduction in brain tissue atrophy.

Application of Vitamin B12 to the skin may treat conditions like eczema. It may also be capable of treating a number of less serious rashes, reactions, blemishes, and general skin damage.

There is research to suggest that Vitamin B12 may help to protect against some forms of cancer. A 2003 study related this to cervical cancer. The conclusion was that women using B12 supplements and also have a high intake of folate, riboflavin, and thiamin may be less likely to develop cervical cancer.

Vitamin B12 Dosage:

The recommended daily allowance of Vitamin B12 is quite low, around 2.4 mcg for most adults. This amount is considered to be insufficient to lead to any significant improvements in brain capacity. For supplementation purposes, it is typically recommended to use between 25 and 100 mcg.

You may need to increase this dosage later in life; as we get older, it becomes more difficult for the body to absorb Vitamin B12. Some studies have used as much as 500 mcg per day with no adverse side effects and positive outcomes in brain health.

Vitamin B12 Side Effects:

There have been no instances of toxicity or serious adverse effects reported from using this supplement. Even large “megadose” intakes of up 1 mg have been used without significant side effects. With higher dose, the absorption of this vitamin decreases meaning that your dosing is less cost-effective. However, the Food and Nutrition Board has not set an upper tolerable intake level.

Vitamin B12 Review:

Cobalamin, or Vitamin B12, is yet another example of how important the B complex vitamins are to cognitive function. Studies continue to find links between using B12 supplements and reduced signs of cognitive decline due to aging.

Anyone taking a nootropic stack or simply interested in maximizing their brainpower should find a high quality Vitamin B family multi-vitamin to use. There is little risk of taking too much of this vitamin and no known side effects.

Vitamin B12 can boost your memory, make it easier to concentrate, improve signal transmission between neurons and even keep your brain healthy late into life.

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