The benefits of vitamin B12 for elite athletes, according to an expert

Vitamin B12 is an important nutrient, especially for those who lead active and demanding lifestyles, such as professional athletes. That’s why in this article, Besfor nutritionist Roberto Sanchez, in an interview with MARCA, reveals the amazing benefits of this nutrient and tells us in which foods we can find it:

Question: What is vitamin B12 and what is it for?

Answer: Vitamin B12 is a water-soluble vitamin that plays a critical role in DNA synthesis, red blood cell formation, and maintenance of the central nervous system. It is also vital for protein and fatty acid metabolism and energy production. Additionally, vitamin B12 is involved in cognitive function and mood, making it an important nutrient for mental and emotional health.

Question: In what foods can we find vitamin B12?

Answer: Vitamin B12 is unique in that it is found only in animal products. Some of the best sources include lean meats, fish, shellfish, dairy products, and eggs. For those who follow a vegetarian or vegan diet, it is important to look for foods fortified with vitamin B12 or take supplements to ensure you get enough.

Question: How does vitamin B12 benefit elite athletes?

Answer: It provides 4 health benefits to athletes:

ENERGY PRODUCTION:

Vitamin B12 is necessary for the synthesis of red blood cells, which transport oxygen to muscle tissue during exercise. This helps increase endurance and improve athletic performance.

MUSCLE RECOVERY:

Vitamin B12 plays a critical role in muscle recovery and growth after intense training. Helps maintain muscle cell integrity and reduce recovery time.

CARDIOVASCULAR HEALTH:

Vitamin B12 is involved in reducing levels of homocysteine, an amino acid that can increase the risk of heart disease. This is especially important for elite athletes who undergo extreme cardiovascular stress.

COGNITIVE FUNCTION AND CONCENTRATION:

Adequate vitamin B12 intake can improve cognitive function, concentration, and mood, which can be useful during strategic planning and competition.

A vital ally for success

“In summary, vitamin B12 is an essential nutrient that plays many roles in the human body, including energy production, cardiovascular health, cognitive function, and muscle recovery. For elite athletes looking to maximize their performance and maintain optimal health, it is critical to ensure adequate vitamin B12 intake through diet and, if necessary, supplementation. Vitamin B12 is a vital ally on the path to athletic success, from increased resistance to faster recovery,” concludes Roberto Sanchez.