| Cobalt | |||||
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Cobalt is a trace mineral so only very minute amounts are required by the body for good health.
Cobalt is a part of the vitamin B12 (cyanocobalamin) molecule, which is necessary for the health of the outer covering of nervous tissue - the myelin sheath. Cobalt supports healthy red blood cell (haemoglobin) production.
- Cobalt is stored in the red blood cells and plasma, the liver, pancrease, kidney and spleen
- Cobalt is not readily absorbed in the digestive tract
Cobalt is vitally important in supporting healthy nervous tissue, through its function in the myelin sheath formation. The myelin sheath insulates nerves and allows messages to go along the nerves very quickly.
Cobalt (together with vitamin B12) is also important in ensuring healthy levels of red blood cells (haemoglobin), which allows enough nutrients to be transported through them in the blood.
references
- Osiecki, Henry, The Nutrient Bible 2002, BioConcepts Publishing
- Osiecki, Henry. The Physician's Handbook of Clinical Nutrition. 6th edition, 2001, BioConcepts Publishing
- Rolfes SR, Pinna K, Whitney E. Understanding Normal and Clinical Nutrition. 7th Edition, 2005. Brooks Cole Publishing
To learn more, go to the following web sites:
- Food Standards Australia and New Zealand
- Dieticians Association of Australia
- Nutrient Reference Values (Australia)
