B12 issue

B12 plays a vital part in the formation of red blood cells, which carry oxygen to every part of the body.

B12 main roles is the regulation of the nervous system,

where it plays a part in the production of a material called “myelin sheath”.

This material acts as an insulating cover for nerve cells,

and allows for signals to be sent from the brain and spinal chord to the rest of the body.


Can vegans get b12 naturally?

Luckily, vitamin B12 is made by bacteria and doesn't need to be obtained from animal products.

Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is a water based vitamin containing the mineral cobalt.


Read the statements on Challenge22 about B12

A plant-based diet provides all the vitamins and minerals you need,

except for one – vitamin B12.

Vitamin B12 originates from bacteria that are found in

soil, dirt, feces and non-purified water.

Apparently, in the distant past, B12 sources were unclean food and non-purified water.

Vitamin B12 can be found attached to the proteins in the food that we eat.


It is the role of the proteases

(a specialised group of enzymes which aid protein digestion)

and hydrochloric acid found in the stomach,

to separate the B12 from these foods,

breaking them down into a form which can be easily absorbed by the body.


Digestive enzymes are split into three classes:

proteolytic enzymes that are needed to digest protein,

lipases needed to digest fat

and amylases needed to digest carbohydrates


The reliable vegan sources nowadays of B12

are foods fortified with B12

(including plant milks, some soy products and some breakfast cereals)

and B12 supplements. ...

OR Take a weekly B12 supplement providing at least 2000 micrograms.