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Cobalt (Latin cobaltum) is an element included in the group of ferrous metals. It was discovered in 1735 by Georg Brandt – a chemist from Sweden. Cobalt is a silvery metal with ferromagnetic properties. The atomic number of this element is 27. It has 26 isotopes, but its stable form occurs only in isotope 59.
Cobalt – characteristics
The origin of the name of this element is interesting. It derives from the name of a malicious dwarf – Kobold, who was accused of throwing worthless cobalt at that time (XNUMXth century) in place of the desired iron. Before the XNUMXth century, cobalt was used as a dye.
Currently, it has been used as a component of the electrodes of lithium-ion, nickel-metal hydride and nickel-cadmium batteries. Cobalt is used in medicine to sterilize medical equipment, medical waste, and in the case of radiotherapy (cobalt-60).
Cobalt – functions in the body
Cobalt is present in a very small amount in the human body, however, it is an element that plays an important role in its functioning. It can be found in the reactive centers of several enzymes. Cobalt participates in the regeneration processes of the body. It has a very large share in the production of vitamin B12 (cobalamin) due to the fact that it is its central atom. Vitamin B12 is extremely important for the proper functioning of the body. Insufficient amount of it can lead to anemia which, if left untreated, is life-threatening.
Cobalt has a regulatory function in the production of red blood cells, as well as in the metabolism of nucleic acids and proteins. It is also an essential element for pregnant women as it is involved in the production of vitamin B9 (folic acid). Moreover cobalt has anti-cancer effects and contributes to the formation of neurotransmitters. Its proper amount in the body improves concentration, thought processes, regulates the mood and general mental balance.
The functions of cobalt also include the regulation of appetite, supporting the body’s immunity and supporting the regeneration of the skin after burns and injuries. Cobalt supplementation (along with manganese) is also recommended in patients diagnosed with conditions such as blood circulation disorders in the lower limbs, varicose veins, phlebitis, food stagnation, ulcers, swelling and joint inflammation. It is also used in the treatment of arthritis, coronary arteritis, memory problems, menopause and menstrual pain.
Cobalt in combination with other elements has a healing effect on many other types of diseases.
See also: Micronutrients and their role in the body
Cobalt – Cobalt deficiency in the body
Cobalt deficiency manifests itself as vitamin B12 deficiency followed by disturbances in the blood clotting process. In addition, insufficient amounts of this element can result in symptoms such as general weakness, apathy, weight loss, pale skin, irritability, vision problems, problems with balance, and even depression and confusion.
The risk of cobalt deficiency is increased for those following a plant-based diet. Due to the risk of cobalt overdose, its supplementation should be carried out under strict medical supervision.
Find out more: Safety in the use of minerals and vitamins
Cobalt – occurrence and sources
Cobalt is found in the Earth’s crust in the form of smaltine and cobaltite. The largest deposits of this element are found in Africa. The main food source of cobalt for humans is meat, milk, corn, lettuce, grains, spinach, cabbage and green vegetables.
Cobalt – allergic and cobalt allergy
However, it should be remembered that cobalt is an element that can cause an allergic reaction in some people. Although this happens very rarely with pure cobalt, more often this type of situation is caused by a combination of cobalt with another metal, such as nickel or chromium. Then our skin responds to the contact of a given part of the body with metal, resulting reactions such as: inflammation of the auricles, rash on the skin or the formation of suppuration.
It should also be added that the group of people most exposed to cobalt poisoning are manual workers who have contact with this metal and who are additionally allergic to cobalt. In most cases, in such situations, antihistamines and glucocorticosteroids are administered and it is recommended to avoid contact with the element cobalt.
In extreme cases, chronic cobalt consumption has caused serious health problems at doses far below the lethal dose. In 1966, the addition of cobalt compounds to stabilize beer foam in Canada led to a particular form of toxin-induced cardiomyopathy, which became known as beer drinker’s cardiomyopathy.
In addition, cobalt metal is suspected to cause cancer (ie possibly carcinogenic) according to the monographs of the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). Inhaling it causes respiratory problems. When touched for it, it also causes skin problems; after nickel and chromium, cobalt is the leading cause of allergic contact dermatitis. Interestingly, cobalt can be effectively absorbed by charred bones in pigs; however, this process is inhibited by copper and zinc, which have a greater affinity for charring bones.
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