◆ The vital importance of Vitamin B12. Vitamin B12 deficiency is prevalent in vegetarians and the elderly. It’s been linked to the onset of anemia, brain fog, depression and heart disease. It is unfortunate that proposed vegan sources for vitamin B12, like tempeh, spirulina and green leafy vegetables, contain insignificant amounts and do not provide the body with the levels required. B-12 deficiency plays out in the following: jaundice –yellowing of the eyes and skin, which is caused by the high amounts of the bilirubin pigment being released from the destruction of fragile red blood cells brought on by low vitamin B12 levels; memory loss or cognitive difficulties; overwhelming fatigue. Optimal levels of B12 are as important as folic acid during pregnancy. Supplementing B12 may help in lessening the effects of depression. Vitamin B12 is animal-sourced- abundant in red meat, poultry and dairy products.