Autoimmune Disease and Vitamin B12
Why is Vitamin B12 important?
Why is Vitamin B12 Important?
Have you had your Vitamin B12 levels checked by your GP recently?
Vitamin B12 is a vital nutrient that keeps your red blood cells healthy, supports steady energy levels, and protects your nervous system. It also plays an important role in producing healthy white blood cells so your immune system can defend you properly.
Because your body cannot make Vitamin B12 on its own, you need to get it regularly through your diet or supplements. While your liver can store Vitamin B12 for several years, those reserves can slowly run low—especially if you have an autoimmune condition like Coeliac disease or pernicious anaemia that makes it harder for your gut to absorb nutrients from food.
Where can you find Vitamin B12?
Vitamin B12 occurs naturally in animal-based foods, including:
Meat and poultry
Fish and seafood
Eggs and dairy products (such as milk, cheese, and yoghurt)
Because unfortified plant foods like plain beans, lentils, and nuts do not contain Vitamin B12, anyone following a plant-based or mostly vegetarian diet should look for fortified foods—such as fortified breakfast cereals (gluten-free if needed), fortified plant milks, nutritional yeast, or yeast extract—or speak with their doctor about a suitable supplement.
(Always check with your GP before starting supplements, as getting a blood test first ensures you take the right dose—and avoids masking other deficiencies.)
I hope you have enjoyed this information. Until next time!
Emma Alexander-Cook.
Facebook Support Group
A Facebook group set up to support those living with Autoimmune Diseases or are living gluten-free, dairy-free life.
