Vitamin B12 is involved in the production of red blood cells & in maintaining nerve insulation. Vitamin B12 can be lacking in the diet of vegetarians & vegans. Benefits:• Vitamin B12 is required for the synthesis of haemoglobin, the oxygen carrying pigment in red blood cells.• Required for normal folic acid utilization & activity • Vitamin B12 is only found in animal derived foods, it is therefore recommended that vegans take a supplement • The elderly are vulnerable to B12 deficiency due to decreased secretion of intrinsic factor (required for vitamin B12 absorption)