The average non-vegetarian stores between 2,000 and 3,000 picograms of B-12 per day.
B-12 helps change homocysteine into methionine.
When this does not happen, homocysteine levels increase, which recent research has associated heart disease and deterioration of the arteries and nerves.
Although many vegan foods are said to have active B-12, few are proving to actually raise B-12 or prevent its loss.
There are a variety of symptoms of B-12 deficiency, which is a danger for vegans and live fooders.
The initial symptoms can include low energy, but it can eventually cause permanent nerve damage, depression, numbness and tingling in the hands and feet, nervousness, paranoia, hyperactive reflexes, impaired memory and behavioral changes.
According to Dr. Cousen's Blog:
"Consistent research over the last decade has shown that vegans and live food people of all ages and sexes have a much higher risk of becoming B-12 deficient ...
This deficiency is particularly true with newborn babies ...
The good news that one major study ... showed, in studying 37 vegan children was that there was normal growth and development in children who were breastfed for 6 months at a minimum, when there was B-12 supplementation ...
It is my medical opinion, as a vegan since 1973 and live fooder since 1983, and as a person committed to supporting all those who choose to become healthy live food vegans, that it would be wise to incorporate some B-12 supplementation in your diet."
Story at-a-glance
- Vitamin B12 is found almost exclusively in animal tissues, which vegans and vegetarians do not typically eat. The few plant foods that are sources of B12 are actually B12 analogs, which blocks the uptake of true B12 and actually increases your need for it.
- B12 is stored in your liver, kidneys and other body tissues. As a result, a deficiency may not be apparent for about seven years.
- Initial symptoms of deficiency include: lack of motivation, apathy, mental fogginess, muscle weakness and fatigue. Chronic long-term B12 deficiency can lead to serious conditions such as depression, dementia, and fertility problems.
To read the rest of this important article by Dr. Mercola click HERE
