Vitamin B12 in Relation to Oxidative Stress: A Systematic Review

source extracted confidence: high 2026-04-09
#antioxidants #biomarkers #humans #oxidative-stress #reactive-oxygen-species

Vitamin B12 in Relation to Oxidative Stress: A Systematic Review

van et al., 2019 | Nutrients | Systematic Review

Citation

van de Lagemaat Erik E, de Groot Lisette C P G M, van den Heuvel Ellen G H M. Vitamin B12 in Relation to Oxidative Stress: A Systematic Review. Nutrients. 2019-Feb-25;11(2). doi:10.3390/nu11020482

Abstract

The triage theory posits that modest micronutrient deficiencies may induce reallocation of nutrients to processes necessary for immediate survival at the expense of long-term health. Neglected processes could in time contribute to the onset of age-related diseases, in which oxidative stress is believed to be a major factor. Vitamin B12 (B12) appears to possess antioxidant properties. This review aims to summarise the potential antioxidant mechanisms of B12 and investigate B12 status in relation to oxidative stress markers. A systematic query-based search of PubMed was performed to identify eligible publications. The potential antioxidant properties of B12 include: (1) direct scavenging of reactive oxygen species (ROS), particularly superoxide; (2) indirect stimulation of ROS scavenging by preservation of glutathione; (3) modulation of cytokine and growth factor production to offer protection from immune response-induced oxidative stress; (4) reduction of homocysteine-induced oxidative stress; and (5) reduction of oxidative stress caused by advanced glycation end products. Some evidence appears to suggest that lower B12 status is related to increased pro-oxidant and decreased antioxidant status, both overall and for subclinically deficient individuals compared to those with normal B12 status. However, there is a lack of randomised controlled trials and prospective studies focusing specifically on the relation between B12 and oxidative stress in humans, resulting in a low strength of evidence. Further work is warranted.

Key Findings

Further work is warranted.

Outcomes Measured

  • Requires manual extraction

Population

Field Value
Population See abstract
Sample Size See abstract
Age Range See abstract
Condition stress

MeSH Terms

  • Antioxidants
  • Biomarkers
  • Humans
  • Oxidative Stress
  • Reactive Oxygen Species
  • Vitamin B 12
  • Vitamin B Complex

Evidence Classification

  • Level: Systematic Review
  • Publication Types: Journal Article, Systematic Review
  • Vertical: vitamin-b12

Provenance

Source extracted via PubMed E-utilities API on 2026-04-09