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Vitamin B12 and health
Milly Ryan-Harshman1, Walid Aldoori
1FEAST Enterprises, 947 Oshawa Blvd N, Oshawa, ON L1G 5V6. ryanharshman@rogers.com
Canadian Family Physician Medecin De Famille Canadien
|April 16, 2008
Summary
Vitamin B12 may reduce the risk of chronic diseases and birth defects. Further research into nutritional genomics is needed to understand its benefits alongside folic acid, especially for neural tube defects.
Area of Science:
- Nutritional Science
- Public Health
Background:
- Emerging evidence suggests a link between vitamin B12 and reduced risk of chronic diseases and birth defects.
- Understanding these associations is crucial for public health initiatives.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent scientific evidence on the association between vitamin B12 and the risk reduction of chronic diseases and birth defects.
- To explore the potential role of vitamin B12 in health and disease prevention.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive MEDLINE search was conducted from 1999 to 2007 using the keyword "vitamin B12."
- 129 relevant articles focusing on cardiovascular disease, cancer, mental health, and birth outcomes were analyzed.
- The majority of the included studies provided level II evidence.
Main Results:
- Vitamin B12 may offer health benefits, though its effects are intertwined with folic acid's functions.
- Vitamin B12 may help lower elevated homocysteine levels more effectively than folic acid alone.
- Interactions between nutritional factors and genetics significantly influence vitamin B12's impact on chronic disease and neural tube defect risk.
Conclusions:
- Vitamin B12 shows potential in protecting against chronic diseases and neural tube defects.
- Further research, particularly in nutritional genomics, is required to clarify how vitamin B12 enhances folic acid's benefits.
- Consideration should be given to fortifying foods with vitamin B12, complementing current folic acid fortification strategies.
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