Cobalt (Co)

In the first half of the 20th century, vitamin B12 was isolated from animal liver, containing 4% cobalt. Later, scientists came to the conclusion that vitamin B12 is a physiologically active form of cobalt and cobalt deficiency is nothing more than vitamin B12 deficiency.

The body contains 1-2 mg of cobalt, in the greatest amount it is concentrated in the liver and to a lesser extent in the pancreas, kidneys, adrenal glands, thyroid gland and lymph nodes. In the blood, the concentration of cobalt ranges from 0,07 to 0,6 μmol / l and depends on the season – it is higher in summer, which is associated with increased consumption of fresh vegetables and fruits.

Cobalt rich foods

Indicated approximate availability in 100 g of product

 

Daily cobalt requirement

The daily requirement for cobalt is 0,1-1,2 mg.

Useful properties of cobalt and its effect on the body

The main value of cobalt lies in its effect on the processes of hematopoiesis and metabolism. Without cobalt, there is no vitamin B12, being a part of this vitamin, it participates in the breakdown of carbohydrates, proteins and fats, the synthesis of amino acids and DNA, maintains the nervous and immune systems in working order, is responsible for the normal functioning of cells, the growth and development of erythrocytes.

Cobalt is essential for the normal functioning of the pancreas and the regulation of adrenaline activity. It improves the absorption of iron in the intestine and activates the transition of the so-called deposited iron into the hemoglobin of erythrocytes. Promotes better assimilation of protein nitrogen, stimulates the synthesis of muscle proteins.

Interaction with other essential elements

Cobalt improves the absorption of iron (Fe) by the body. It is found in vitamin B12.

Lack and excess of cobalt

Signs of a cobalt deficiency

It has been established that with a shortage of cobalt in the diet, the number of diseases of the endocrine system and the circulatory system increases.

Signs of excess cobalt

Excess cobalt can lead to severe cardiomyopathy with severe heart failure.

Factors affecting the cobalt content of foods

The concentration of cobalt in food products depends on the content in the soil of different geographic areas.

Why Cobalt Deficiency Occurs

Lack of cobalt in the body occurs in chronic diseases of the digestive system, such as chronic gastritis, duodenal ulcer and chronic cholangiocholecystitis.

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