Vitamin B12

                            U.S. Recommended Daily Allowances

         Infants        Children      Adults and           Pregnant or

         (0-12 mo.)     (1-3 years)   Children 4 Years +   Nursing Women

         2 micrograms   3 mcg         6 mcg                8 mcg

               (The U.S. RDA amounts are sufficient to meet the needs
          of practically all healthy people.)

               Vitamin B12 (cobalamin) is a water-soluble vitamin
          whose primary sources are animal products; plant foods are
          virtually devoid of it.

               Functions: Aids in red blood cell development and the
          functioning of all cells, particularly those of the bone
          marrow, nervous system, and intestines. Also helps
          metabolize protein and fat in the body.

               Sources: Animal products, including liver and other
          organ meats, beef, pork, eggs, milk and milk products, and
          fish. Bacteria in the intestinal tract produce some vitamin
          [B.sub.12] and thus may serve as another source.

               Deficiency: Signs include weakness, sore tongue, and
          anemia. It also is linked to some nerve and psychiatric
          disorders. However, vitamin [B.sub.12] deficiency is rare,
          and more than 95 percent of cases seen in the United States
          are related to the body's inability to absorb the vitamin.

               Excess: No toxicity has been reported from high
          intakes, but no benefits have been reported, either.