Vitamin B12 for Vegans

Vitamin B12 for vegans has always been a controversial topic. It is one the reasons the vegan diet is frowned upon in western culture. However, Rastafarians and Hindu followers have lived a full life on a vegan diet without any issues or complication. As a matter of fact, vegans tend to live a much healthier life than most meat eaters who get plenty of vitamin B12. Furthermore, if Vitamin B12 is so lacking, then all vegans should suffer from stunted mental and physical growth. Obviously this is not the case (though it can happen). This brings me to my main point; Vegans do get vitamin B12 in their diet without being conscious of it. I will also discuss why western cultured or modern vegans receive less of the vitamin than third world or naturally vegan cultured societies. However, first let us try to define and understand what vitamin B12 is.

It plays a major significant role in the brain and nervous system. It also plays an integral role in blood cell and DNA formation. Vitamin B12 can only be formed by bacteria. It is biosynthesized from the earthly element called cobalt. This can happen inside or outside of the stomach.

• Fortified vegan foods come to mind such as brewer's and nutritional yeasts. The B12 in these foods are synthesized from bacteria cultures.
• Algae or seaweeds such as nori and spirulina are a controversial source of B-12. This is because some research has shown it may not be bioavailable for digestion.
• Tablet supplements are the most popular form that vegans use to increase their vitamin B-12 levels.

This is an interesting point and western cultured vegans should pay attention. The reason why third world and eastern cultured vegans are less likely to have vitamin B12 deficiency is because their food normally comes directly from the soil or fruit trees. For example, the potato is pulled directly from the ground and put into the pot. Therefore, at some point the bacteria and the cobalt from the dirt gets on our hands and may get to our mouths.

In modern day culture the vegetables and fruits are washed with chemicals that kill the good bacterial flora and remove the earthly elements like cobalt.

That is why you rarely hear of this topic amongst vegans in third world countries.

• Higher homocysteine levels which are a stress precursor may occur. Vitamin B12 helps to reduce homocysteine levels.
• Delusions, hallucinations, depression and dementia can also occur. Maybe that’s why vegans are so spiritual.
• Peripheral neuropathy is one of the more serious threats and should be resolved as soon as possible. The symptoms are tingling sensations throughout the body along with weakness of muscles.

If you do not eat vegetables that have soil on it or came directly from the ground, please supplement. Please consult your medical doctor for more information.

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_{Disclaimer: Please note that this Site is provided for informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for informed medical advice. Please consult with a qualified health care provider.}