Seafood & B12 - Questions & Answers

Vitamin B12 is a water-soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy nervous system, forming red blood cells, and keeping the body's metabolism in good working order. It's an essential nutrient that can only be obtained through consuming food or supplements, and it's essential for human health.

Popular questions about Vitamin B12

Does seaweed contain Vitamin B12?

Yes, some types of seaweed do contain Vitamin B12. Some varieties of seaweed, such as kelp and dulse, are a great source of Vitamin B12.

Does oysters have Vitamin B12?

Yes, oysters are a good source of Vitamin B12, with one oyster providing about 9.6 micrograms of the vitamin.

Are oysters high in Vitamin B12?

One 3-ounce serving of oysters contains approximately 79 micrograms of vitamin B12.

Do all fish have Vitamin B12?

Not all fish have Vitamin B12. Generally, fish that are higher in fat, such as mackerel, herring, sardines, and salmon, have higher levels of vitamin B12 than leaner fish, such as cod or sole.

Do fish oil capsules contain Vitamin B12?

However, some varieties of fish may contain small amounts of this vitamin.

Does salmon have Vitamin B12 in it?

Yes, salmon is a very good source of vitamin B12, with a 100-gram serving providing about 4 micrograms of B12.

Do mussels have Vitamin B12?

Vitamin B12 is found in mussels, which are small edible saltwater shellfish. A 3-ounce serving of cooked mussels contains approximately 3.2 micrograms of vitamin B12.

Do oysters have Vitamin B12?

Yes, oysters are rich in Vitamin B12, with 100 grams of oysters providing about 5.4 micrograms of B12.

Do shrimp have Vitamin B12?

Yes, some species of shrimp do contain Vitamin B12, providing between 0.2 and 1.1 micrograms of B12 per 3-ounce serving.

Does tilapia have Vitamin B12?

Some other types of fish and seafood, such as salmon and sardines, are excellent sources of vitamin B12.

Key facts about Vitamin B12

  1. Vitamin B12 is naturally occurring only in animal products, such as meat, fish, and dairy. Vegetarians and vegans often require supplements to meet their daily needs.
  2. A lack of Vitamin B12 can cause anemia, fatigue, and nerve damage.
  3. People with certain medical conditions, such as Crohn's disease and celiac disease, are more prone to B12 deficiency due to malabsorption.
  4. Vitamin B12 can be absorbed by the body in two different ways, passive diffusion, and active transport. Passive diffusion occurs in the stomach, and active transport happens in the ileum.
  5. Vitamin B12 helps to protect the brain from aging and cognitive decline.
  6. Some studies suggest that Vitamin B12 supplements may aid in the prevention of depression and other mental illnesses.
  7. B12 is also important for pregnant women as it aids in healthy fetal development.
  8. The recommended daily intake of Vitamin B12 for adults is 2.4 micrograms per day, but this can vary depending on age, lifestyle, and medical history.