Vitamin B12, which is also known as cobalamin, is an essential vitamin and it is a water soluble vitamin. The most important function of vitamin B12 is to enable the proper functioning of our nervous system and the brain. It is also useful for blood formation. As with all other vitamins, vitamin B12 is also required by the body in sufficient amounts, otherwise a person might have to suffer from the vitamin B12 side effects.

The foremost benefit of vitamin B12 is the function that it performs. Vitamin B12 is necessary for the proper working of our nervous system and the brain. It also contributes in improving and maintaining the metabolic system of the body. Adequate quantities of vitamin B12 help in treating diseases and disorders such as, diabetes, insomnia, allergies, osteoporosis, asthma, etc. Presence of vitamin B12 in the body helps minimize the chances of pernicious anemia. Vitamin B12 also helps in relieving fatigue and contributes to the improvement of concentration of a person. Sufficient quantities of vitamin B12 help in the generation of genetic material called DNA.

Vitamin B12 deficiency takes place, either due to the impaired absorption of the vitamin by the body, or lack of foods rich in vitamin B12 in the diet. The scientific name for vitamin B12 deficiency is, asymptomatic. The most common vitamin B12 deficiency symptoms are shortness of breath, insomnia, memory loss, depression, fatigue, tiredness, pernicious anemia, sores in the mouth corner, eye twitching, migraine, headaches, etc.

Vitamin B12 side effects are usually seen due to vitamin B12 overdose or excess consumption. Some of the common vitamin B12 side effects include breathing problems, heart palpitations, chest pain, skin rashes, panic attacks, anxiety and itching.

Vitamin B12 is no doubt an essential vitamin, which is required for proper body functions and the normal growth of our body. Fish, eggs, cheese, lamb are some of the vitamin B12 foods. You can meet your dietitian to include these foods in your diet.