Folic acid (Vitamin B9) in the vegetarian diet
Wojciech Wiśniewski
2026-03-17
5 min. read
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Folic acid is crucial for the creation of the organism's genetic material and the production of red blood cells, and it is also vital for the proper development of the fetus. Its deficiencies are linked to serious consequences, including anemia and fetal development disorders. Folic acid is not produced by the human body, hence it must be provided through diet. Leafy green vegetables and whole grain products are its best sources.
The complex cobalamin as a key component of vitamin B12
In actuality, the term vitamin B12 refers to a complex group of chemical compounds known as cobalamin, which play a crucial role in maintaining homeostasis in the body. Their primary function involves participating in the synthesis of red blood cells. It was anemia, in fact, that led to the discovery of cobalamin. It was observed that administering liver to anemic dogs accelerates their recovery to health. Initially, it was thought to be the regenerative properties of iron, but a new substance was discovered: vitamin B12. A deficiency in this vitamin is the cause of a type of anemia known as megaloblastic anemia.
Vitamin B12 and the vegetarian diet
The vegetarian diet is closely linked to the renunciation of meat as a food source. However, there are several variations of this diet, with the most restrictive being veganism, which excludes all animal products, not only meat but also eggs and milk. The main component of this diet is plant products, which unfortunately are not a source of vitamin B12 and are completely devoid of it. The human body is not capable of producing this vitamin, which is essential for the proper functioning of the body.
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