5 Surprising Benefits of Vitamin B12

Vitamin B12 plays an especially important role in how our bodies metabolize other nutrients, keep things in balance and promote cell production. It may not help to have an excess of B12, but it’s proven that a deficiency of this important vitamin can cause some serious negative effects. Maintaining at least normal levels of B12, if not more, may provide some surprising benefits.

More Energy

While having extra B12 may not provide additional energy, it has been proven that not having enough of it can cause serious energy drains. Energy drinks often include B vitamins because even though they don’t provide energy themselves, they are vital in helping your body produce it.

Cardiovascular Health

A vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to higher levels of homocysteine. When elevated, this amino acid has been linked to an increased risk of heart disease. Additional studies are needed to uncover the exact link between B12 and heart disease, but initial research suggests one.

Eye Health

Homocysteine also affects eye health and elevated levels have been shown to increase risks for macular degeneration. This eye disease affects your central vision and can worsen over time. Some studies have shown a link between macular degeneration and vitamins B12, B6 and folic acid.

Mental Health & Mood

Serotonin is a compound naturally occurring in your body and plays a big part in regulating mood. Scientists have proven the link between low B12 levels and lowered serotonin production. Vitamin B12 has been used alone and alongside antidepressants to help boost mood for those with depression.

Healthy Hair, Skin & Nails

Many vitamins work together to give us healthy hair, skin and nails. However, vitamin B12 is important for cell production and sometimes dermatologic symptoms are the first signs of a deficiency. If you don’t have enough of it, then the formation of new, healthy cells can slow down, causing changes in the texture and thickness of your hair, the color and health of your nails and even skin conditions like hyperpigmentation.

Some people are more at risk for a B12 deficiency. Those who have gastrointestinal disorders or who have had GI surgeries have shown an increased risk. Even age or your diet can impact healthy B12 levels. A B12 injection may provide these benefits and more, such as weight loss. Call AuraSpa of Beverly Hills Center today at (424) 303-5800 to schedule an appointment and discuss whether B12 injections could benefit you.