The importance of Vitamin B12

During my recent research into the benefits of Vitamin B12 I was amazed as to how important this vitamin really is, and how so many common health problems may be related to a deficiency of B12.

As B12 is primarily found in animal products many vegan or vegetarians may be deficient if they are not taking B12 supplements. With a growing tendency to not consume animal products - especially red meats in Australia over the past decade...it bears considering whether this corresponds with the rise in many illness and also infertility.

American research showed that 92% of vegan, 64% of lacto-vegetarians, 47% of lacto-ovovegetarians and 20% of semi-vegetarian had blood levels of B12 below normal.

B12 deficiency in the elderly is very common and is thought to be related more to reduced digestive enzymes and hydrochloric acid required to breakdown meat products and to absorb the B12 from them. There is also a reduced desire to choose heavy meat products as they tend to feel that they can no longer digest it which in many cases is very true.


As for infertility ...it appears that lack of animal products or lack of absorption of B12 (due to reduced digestive function) in the diet can severely reduce fertility. If you are trying to conceive you may need to get your B12 levels tested to see if supplementation is needed.

In males Vitamin B12 deficiency hampers fertility by reducing sperm count. In studies done to males with less than 20 million sperm count - 27% of those given 1000mcg of Vitamin B12 daily and 57% of those given 6000mcg daily managed to achieve 100 million count. This show the importance of B12 in male fertility.

For the female it is equally important. Deficiency of B12 hinders ovulation and reduces the chances of the fertilized eggs developing resulting in miscarriage. In one study a woman who had previously had 7 miscarriages before the B12 deficiency was detected went on to have 3 normal, healthy pregnancies and children once the level was corrected.

In many cases B12 deficiency may be hindering your attempts to conceive. In the last few months I have noticed that about 50% of the women who are seeking help for infertility are consuming little or no red meat in their diets. Following low or not animal product diets is fine as long as you are supplementing you diet with B12.
If you think you may be at risk please talk to your health profession.

Any thoughts or opinions you would like to add?

Vanessa