Naturopathic Information - MICROgenics StrawB-12

Particular groups which may be at risk of Vitamin B12 deficiency are the elderly, pregnant women, vegetarians and vegans
As we age our ability to absorb Vitamin B12 declines due to inadequate stomach acid, medications that reduce gastric acidity or reduced production of a substance called Intrinsic Factor, which is necessary for the absorption of Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12 and Folic Acid supports a healthy functioning nervous system and stabilizes moods. Deficiencies of Vitamin B12 can sometimes occur with ageing, and may contribute to neurological disturbances as Vitamin B12 participates in the synthesis of important lipids and proteins that form the myelin sheath, covering nerves of the brain and spinal cord.
Vitamin B12 and Folic Acid supplementation may assist in lowering homocysteine levels. Healthy homocysteine levels are associated with proper functioning of the cardiovascular system
Vegans and vegetarians are susceptible to Vitamin B12 deficiency due to reduced dietary intake of Vitamin B12 foods such as lean meats, eggs, milk and cheese
Taking Folic Acid prior to conception and during pregnancy may reduce the risk of a woman having a child with neural tube defects

Vitamin B12 and Folic Acid supplements provide the following health benefits:

Helps protect chromosomes against genetic damage
Helps prevent pregnancy complications such as birth defects, including neural tube defects
Maintains already normal homocysteine levels which is important for heart health
Participates in the utilization of sugar and amino acids carbohydratesv
Promotes healthier skin
Helps maintain a healthy GI tract
Maintains healthy endothelial function
Improves mild memory problems associated with aging

Folic Acid may reduce the risk of a woman having a child with birth defects of the brain &/or spinal cord such as spina bifida and anencephaly if taken in conjunction with a healthy diet.
Poor Folate status 1 month prior to conception and during the first trimester of pregnancy is an independent risk factor for neural tube defects. Supplementing with Folic Acid during this time may reduce this risk.
Spina bifida is a developmental birth defect involving the neural tube whereby incomplete closure of the embryonic neural tube results in an incompletely formed spinal cord.

B12 and Folate play a fundamental role in cell division and DNA synthesis. In order to divide properly cells need adequate folate. A deficiency in folate will particularly impact cells that have a high turnover such as in pregnancy and fetal tissue development, blood and gastrointestinal cells.
B12 and Folic Acid are considered blood tonics as they help to maintain normal healthy blood.
May reduce the risk of Folic Acid deficiency.

Vitamin B12 and Folic Acid may assist in supporting a healthy heart and cardiovascular system.

Folate deficiency may occur in mood disorders, supplementing with Folic Acid may assist in maintaining a healthy nervous system.
Good dietary sources of folate are fresh leafy green vegetables such as cabbage, spinach, broccoli, sprouts, organ meats, and fortified cereals. Unfortunately, food preparation and processing can destroy almost 50-95% of folate as it is heat, light and air sensitive.
It is recommended to very lightly steam or eat fresh leafy greens to obtain some folate in the diet. Pregnant women may still require supplementation in order to achieve adequate levels.