Vitamin B12

Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is an essential water-soluble vitamin that supports healthy nerve and blood cells, DNA synthesis, and energy production. It must be obtained from animal products like meat, dairy, and eggs, or from fortified foods and supplements, as the body does not produce it on its own. Most people who eat animal products are not likely to develop vitamin B12 deficiency anemia, unless their bodies can't absorb it from food. Strict vegetarians (vegans) who do not eat animal products and babies of mothers who are strict vegetarians are at increased risk for developing vitamin B12 deficiency anemia.