The true masters of our bodies are the organs, quietly working 24/7 behind the scenes to keep us healthy and alive. Among them is the pancreas, which plays an important yet often overlooked role. From breaking down food to maintaining blood sugar levels, these diligent organs facilitate many essential functions. To keep the pancreas healthy and functioning properly, certain nutrients are required—among them, one of the most potent is vitamin B12.With increasing research to support this assertion, as a critical nutrient in preventing and treating pancreatic diseases like acute pancreatitis. New scientific evidence gives us some insight into the mechanisms through which this critical nutrient acts in our favor.
The role of Vitamin B12 in Pancreatic protection
A recent study in the journal Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity elaborates on “how” vitamin B12 helps the pancreas, particularly in the case of acute pancreatitis, a sudden inflammation of the pancreas that may result in serious health issues.
How does B12 fit into the equation?
Vitamin B12 is also referred to as cobalamin, a substance the body requires but cannot produce alone. It is accessible only through food intake, and it plays a significant role in ensuring the cells work efficiently.
What the study says
Decreasing inflammation and cellular damageIn acute pancreatitis, pancreatic cells are under oxidative stress and damage. Vitamin B12 has been found to reinstate the functioning of cystathionine-β-synthase (CBS), an enzyme fundamental in the generation of glutathione (GSH), a key antioxidant that neutralizes nasty reactive oxygen species (ROS).It boosts antioxidant and mitochondrial functionsVitamin B12 stimulates the CBS pathway, which is fundamental in preserving cellular well-being by- elevating the levels of glutathione (pronounced as Gloo-ta-thigh-own)Supports mitochondria, the cell’s powerhouse, by enhancing their performance and encouraging the removal of dysfunctional mitochondria.
How was the study carried out?
Both animal models (in vivo) and cell cultures (in vitro) were employed to research acute pancreatitis. Using both in vivo and in vitro enabled them to see effects in living organisms as well as at the cellular level.Inducing acute pancreatitisIn animals, acute pancreatitis was induced by injecting sodium taurocholate (NaT) into the pancreatic duct. Rats were randomly assigned into four groups (6 rats per group)Control (saline)Acute pancreatitis (NaT alone)NaT + Vitamin B₁₂ (20 µg/kg)NaT + Vitamin B₁₂ (40 µg/kg)Last resultsThe ultimate findings of the research indicated that vitamin B₁₂ (VB₁₂) strongly guarded against acute pancreatitis through the attenuation of inflammation, oxidative stress, and pancreatic cell death. In summary, it indicates that Vitamin B12 has an important role to play in guarding and maintaining pancreatic well-being.How do we enhance the consumption of vitamin B12?One can enhance the level of Vitamin B12 in the body through a combination of diet, supplements, and lifestyleFor non-vegetarians
- Fish (salmon, tuna, trout)
- Poultry (chicken, turkey)
- Eggs and dairy (cheese, yogurt and milk)
For vegetarians
- Plant milks (soy, almond, oat)
- Fortified breakfast cereals
- Mock meats such as tofu
Note: B12 is a water-soluble nutrient, and therefore excess amounts are generally excreted rather than stored, making regular intake more essential than previously.