Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) is critical for many women who suffer from severe menopausal symptoms. One side effect of can be the depletion of Vitamin B12 in the body which can affect one’s energy levels and moods. Let’s look at how this vitamin is used in the body and how standard levels can be maintained.
Vitamin B12 or methylcobalamin is also called the “energy vitamin.” It serves various functions in our body including synthesis of cells and DNA, cell metabolism, energy mobilization, red blood cell formation and regulation of overall body strength.
Why is Vitamin B12 Essential?
Our body cannot synthesize vitamin B12 on its own. That’s why it must be taken in the form of food or supplements to meet the body’s needs.
Functions of Vitamin B12
- Maintains energy levels
- Regulates mood swings
- Regulates neuronal signaling
- Improves memory and recognition
- Sharpens mind and focus
- Aids digestion
- Regulates heart health
- Promotes healthy skin
- Synthesizes hormones
- Adjust normal body functioning
- Regulates all metabolic processes, especially methionine cycle at cellular level hence regulates energy and performance.
- Protects the central nervous system against damage
Symptoms of Vitamin B12 Deficiency
- Anemia (deficiency of red blood cells)
- Restlessness
- Tiredness
- Chronic fatigue
- Amnesia
- Decreased focus and sharpness
- Difficulty thinking
- Depression and anxiety
- Digestive problems
- Joint pain (arthritis)
- Abnormally sized RBC production
Vitamin B12 and Good Health
Vitamin B12 protects against damage to DNA and RNA; each cell uses vitamin B12 as a catalyst in the regulation of cellular processes. Vitamin B12 improves mood and causes the regular production of serotonin that is responsible for a happy mood and emotional health of the brain. Furthermore, it also stimulates immune functions, thus helping the body in the fight against harmful pathogens.
Natural Sources of Vitamin B12
Proteins are great sources of B12. These sources include: fish, meat (i.e beef/lamb/mutton), liver, poultry, eggs, milk, dairy products, and cricket protein is not only a good source of full-spectrum protein but is also rich in vitamin B12 as much as a salmon.
Vitamin B12 is usually less readily available in plant foods (fruits and vegetables). However, fortified breakfast cereals are a good option.
Vitamin B12 deficiency happens slowly, but its outcomes can be bad for health. One should maintain the standard level of vitamin B12 either via dietary intake or by using hormone replacement therapy to keep the mood, memory, energy levels, digestion, heart function, skin health, hormone production, and homeostasis in a perfect balance.
If you are on Hormone Replacement Therapy schedule an appointment to have your Vitamin B12 levels checked. Call Metro MediSpa at 888-637-7228 or 910-599-9925.
