Vitamin B12

        

                            U.S. Recommended Daily Allowances

         Infants        Children      Adults and           Pregnant or

         (0-12 mo.)     (1-3 years)   Children 4 Years +   Nursing Women

         2 micrograms   3 mcg         6 mcg                8 mcg

               (The U.S. RDA amounts are sufficient to meet the needs

          of practically all healthy people.)

               Vitamin B12 (cobalamin) is a water-soluble vitamin

          whose primary sources are animal products; plant foods are

          virtually devoid of it.

               Functions: Aids in red blood cell development and the

          functioning of all cells, particularly those of the bone

          marrow, nervous system, and intestines. Also helps

          metabolize protein and fat in the body.

               Sources: Animal products, including liver and other

          organ meats, beef, pork, eggs, milk and milk products, and

          fish. Bacteria in the intestinal tract produce some vitamin

          [B.sub.12] and thus may serve as another source.

               Deficiency: Signs include weakness, sore tongue, and

          anemia. It also is linked to some nerve and psychiatric

          disorders. However, vitamin [B.sub.12] deficiency is rare,

          and more than 95 percent of cases seen in the United States

          are related to the body's inability to absorb the vitamin.

               Excess: No toxicity has been reported from high

          intakes, but no benefits have been reported, either.