Vitamin B12 (cobalamin) is an essential ingredient for brain cells, the central nervous system, and oxygen-carrying haemoglobin in red blood cells. We get it from our diets and absorb it at the end of the small intestine, helped by intrinsic factor, a chemical secreted by the stomach.
Our bodies store enough for at least two years, but without B12 we’ll eventually develop pernicious anaemia (PA). One in 10,000 people has PA, and after the age of 65 more than one in 20 of us has it. However, younger people can get it, too, particularly if they follow strict vegan diets without getting enough B12. Dietary deficiency is a common cause, especially in people who don’t like animal-based foods, or have problems with shopping or cooking due to poor mobility, or other disabilities.
Esta historia es de la edición February 2021 de Woman's Weekly Living Series.
Comience su prueba gratuita de Magzter GOLD de 7 días para acceder a miles de historias premium seleccionadas y a más de 9,000 revistas y periódicos.
Ya eres suscriptor ? Conectar
Esta historia es de la edición February 2021 de Woman's Weekly Living Series.
Comience su prueba gratuita de Magzter GOLD de 7 días para acceder a miles de historias premium seleccionadas y a más de 9,000 revistas y periódicos.
Ya eres suscriptor? Conectar
Coping With...Feeling Dizzy
Dizziness is a common symptom that usually settles on its own and is rarely serious, says Dr Gill Jenkins
Let's Get Gardening
All the news and best buys hand-picked for you
8 Cancer Signs You Might Be Missing
A lump, unexplained pain or weight loss are changes we associate with cancer, but there are more subtle ones
Recipes For Your Fruit
Plums are such wonderfully diverse ingredients – they can be used in cakes, chutneys or even savoury dishes
The garden at NIGHT
If you’re in the dark about the lighting in your garden, now’s the chance to let it truly sparkle
TOP 10 Autumn hips and berries
Hips and berries can elevate the October garden with their gem-like colours
Perfect PLUMS
RHS Chief Horticulturist Guy Barter shares his how-to on perfecting plum growing
Tall STORIES
Trees can bring structure, shade and fabulous colour to a garden, particularly through the autumn
ACE ACERS
With so many stunning varieties to choose from, acers are among the most beautiful trees for small gardens, says Adrienne Wild
Sensational SALVIAS
From early summer to late autumn, shrubby salvias will sparkle like jewels