Cobalamin (Vitamin B12): An Essential Micronutrient
Vitamin B12 is an essential micronutrient belonging to the group of water-soluble vitamins. Also known as cobalamin, it plays a considerable role in cellular metabolism — acting as a co-factor in DNA synthesis and amino acid metabolism, and playing a huge role in the proper functioning of the nervous system and maturation of bone marrow. Deficiency is linked to cancers, macrocytic anaemia, cardiovascular diseases, and neurological issues.
Sources of Vitamin B12
Cobalamin is usually produced by bacteria. Milk, eggs, fish, cheese, liver, kidney, and muscle meat are good dietary sources. More than 70% of the vitamin’s activity is preserved while cooking most foods. Vegetarians are at particular risk of deficiency since B12 is predominantly found in animal foods.
Risk Factors for Vitamin B12 Deficiency
Vegetarians unable to acquire adequate B12 from their diet
Older adults
People with alcohol addiction
People with gastrointestinal disorders or those who’ve had gastrointestinal surgery
People with pernicious anaemia
Expecting mothers and infants with inadequate food intake
People taking medications for indigestion, acidity, or diabetes (which can impair B12 absorption)
The Genetic Dimension
Genetic predisposition may change the status of Vitamin B12 by targeting the proteins involved in its absorption, intracellular metabolism, and cellular uptake. Research on monozygotic and dizygotic twins reports that B12 heritability is estimated at 59%. Single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in gene clusters interact with the environment and change B12 status. Understanding your genetic predisposition to B12 deficiency can help you take targeted preventive action through diet and supplementation.
Vitamin B12 and Gut Health
Gut health is a critical factor in B12 absorption and overall health. A well-planned diet, intestinal health management, and restraining from unnecessary antibiotics all contribute to maintaining healthy B12 levels. Research on probiotic therapies continues to grow in this area.
Know Your Genetic Vitamin B12 Profile
Genomepatri by MapmyGenome analyses your genetic predisposition to Vitamin B12 deficiency, absorption efficiency, and related metabolic traits — helping you and your doctor personalise your nutrition and supplementation plan. Pair with MapmyBiome to understand how your gut microbiome affects B12 absorption.
