COBALAMINS Meaning and
Definition
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Cobalamins are a group of chemical compounds that are essential for the normal functioning of the human body. They belong to the vitamin B12 family and play a crucial role in various biological processes. Cobalamins consist of a tetrapyrrole ring with a central cobalt atom.
These compounds are primarily involved in the production of red blood cells and the maintenance of a healthy nervous system. They are responsible for the synthesis and maturation of red blood cells, which are crucial for delivering oxygen to different body tissues. Cobalamins also play a vital role in the metabolism of fatty acids and amino acids, ensuring proper energy production and growth.
Cobalamins are obtained mainly through dietary sources, particularly animal-derived foods like meat, fish, eggs, and milk products. Plant-based foods are usually poor sources of cobalamins, which is why vegetarians and vegans may need to supplement their diet or consider fortified products to meet their required intake. Additionally, cobalamins require specific proteins, called intrinsic factor, for proper absorption in the small intestine.
Deficiency in cobalamins can lead to various health problems, including anemia, fatigue, weakness, and nerve damage. In some cases, it can also result in permanent neurological damage if left untreated. Therefore, it is essential to ensure adequate intake of cobalamins through a balanced diet or appropriate supplementation to maintain optimal health and prevent deficiencies.
Common Misspellings for COBALAMINS
- xobalamins
- vobalamins
- fobalamins
- dobalamins
- cibalamins
- ckbalamins
- clbalamins
- cpbalamins
- c0balamins
- c9balamins
- covalamins
- conalamins
- cohalamins
- cogalamins
- cobzlamins
- cobslamins
- cobwlamins
- cobqlamins
- cobakamins
- cobapamins
Etymology of COBALAMINS
The word "Cobalamins" is derived from the element cobalt, which is the central atom in a complex structure known as a corrin ring. This ring is found in vitamin B12 and its related compounds, which are collectively known as cobalamins. "Cobal" refers to cobalt, and the "amin" suffix indicates the presence of an amino group, which is a chemical group containing nitrogen. Therefore, "Cobalamins" essentially means compounds with cobalt and an amino group.
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