Function

• Vitamin B12 is needed to prevent anemia. It is also required for proper digestion, for synthesis of protein, and for the metabolism of carbohydrates and fats.
  
  

Deficiency

• A deficiency of vitamin B12 can cause abnormal gait, bone loss, chronic fatigue, constipation, depression, digestive disorders, drowsiness, enlarged liver, eye disorders, headaches, irritability, memory loss, labored breathing, ringing in the ears and heart palpitations.
  
  

Facts

• Strict vegetarians usually require vitamin B12 supplements because this vitamin is found almost exclusively in animal tissues.
  
  

Benefits

• Vitamin B12 supplements may result in more restful sleep by enhancing sleep patterns. Vitamin B12 may also improve fertility, assist memory and learning, and promote normal growth and development.
  
  

Considerations

• Anti-gout medications, anticoagulant drugs and potassium supplements may block absorption of vitamin B12 from the digestive tract. People taking any of these items should use a liquid or sublingual form of vitamin B12.