Cobalt
The core mineral in vitamin B12
Cobalt is an essential trace mineral, as Cobalt is the core center mineral in Vitamin B12. Cobalt is a crucial element in the formation of red blood cells.
Cobalt is important as a constituent of Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin). The cobalt content of Vitamin B12 is about 4% by weight. Therefore, if you get enough vitamin B12, you will get enough cobalt as well.
Cobalt promotes the synthesis of red blood cells in the human body by stimulating the production of erythropoietin(The hormone responsible for the synthesis of red blood cells in the body).
No Recommended Dietary Allowance(RDA) has been established for cobalt.
Food sources of Cobalt:
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Good food sources of Cobalt include the following;
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Fish
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Nuts
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Green leafy vegetables, such as broccoli and spinach
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Cereals, such as oats.
Toxicity:
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Consumption or administration of too much Cobalt can be harmful. It causes increased production of Red Blood Cells which is called Polycythemia and it interferes with the functions of the Cardiovascular System.
