Cobalt
An essential component of Vitamin B12

Although Cobalt has little direct activity of its own in the body, it is anintegral component of Vitamin B12 (cyanocobalamin). As such, its effect, sources and uses are very similar to B12.

Functions of cobalt in the body

• A vital component of Vitamin B12
• Involved in preventing and treating pernicious anaemia
• Helps red blood cell production
• Supports normal nervous system function

Cobalt deficiency

Signs of cobalt deficiency are effectively those of Vitamin B12 deficiency, whch can be found here

Normal amounts of cobalt in the diet

As for Vitamin B12, around 1.5 mcg/day (micrograms per day)

Sources of dietary cobalt

Found abundantly in all foods that are rich in B12, such as meat, fish, shellfish, milk, liver. Lower levels are found in some mushrooms (such as shitake) and seaweeds, but not in fruits or vegetables, explaining why cegetarians can easily become deficient.

Cobalt supplements

B12 supplements

People requiring additional cobalt.

Vegetarians

Which form of cobalt to take?

As for B12. Whilst deficiency can cause problems, so can excess (over 30mg/day).

Signs associated with excess B12 include

Nausea
Heart failure
Goiter
Kidney damage
Hypothyroidism
Nerve damage

Back from cobalt to trace elements

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