We focus our attention on cobalt, a trace mineral that may be present in small quantities but has a large impact. Join me as I explore the fascinating world of cobalt, its health benefits, sources and the critical role it plays in our well-being.
What is Cobalt?
Cobalt is a trace element, meaning our bodies need it, but in very small amounts. It’s a metallic element that sits in the 27th spot on the periodic table. Cobalt is known for its bright blue color when in raw form, but its role in our health is far more colorless and yet significantly impactful.
The most crucial role of cobalt in human health is its part in the formation of Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin. As the name suggests, cobalamin contains cobalt, and it’s the only vitamin that holds a trace element within its structure.
Vitamin B12 is vital to our health. It contributes to the normal functioning of our nervous system, the production of red blood cells, and the synthesis and metabolism of homocysteine. Without cobalt, our bodies cannot produce this important vitamin.
Cobalt is found in various foods due to the soil in which the food is grown. The highest concentrations of cobalt are found in animal products, especially offal and shellfish. However, plant sources such as spinach, beet greens, and even certain types of water can also provide us with this key element.
Health Benefits
Cobalt and Vitamin B12 Synthesis
Cobalt is a component of vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin. Without cobalt, our bodies cannot produce this essential vitamin. Vitamin B12 is essential for maintaining healthy nerve cells and producing DNA and RNA (the body’s genetic material).
Red Blood Cell
Cobalt plays an important role in the production of red blood cells. It works through vitamin B12, which is required for the synthesis of hemoglobin, the oxygen-carrying protein in red blood cells. This means that cobalt indirectly helps our bodies transport oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body.
Energy Production
Cobalt is involved in the metabolism of fats and carbohydrates, again through its role in vitamin B12. It helps convert these nutrients into glucose, which our bodies use for energy.
Brain Health
Vitamin B12 and cobalt are essential for maintaining brain and nervous system health. It aids in the production of neurotransmitters, the chemicals that transmit signals in our brains. Therefore, cobalt helps support cognitive functions such as concentration and memory.
Bone Health
Cobalt helps in the maintenance of healthy bones. It does so by assisting in the formation of collagen, a protein that contributes to the strength and structure of our bones.
Thyroid Function
Cobalt is essential for the proper function of the thyroid gland. It helps the gland produce thyroid hormone, which regulates your body’s metabolism.
Side Effects
Cardiovascular Symptoms
High concentrations of cobalt can affect the heart and may lead to diseases such as cardiomyopathy. Symptoms include fatigue, shortness of breath and irregular heartbeat.
Neurological Effects
Cobalt toxicity can lead to nerve problems. Symptoms might include hearing and vision loss, ringing in the ears and coordination issues.
Thyroid Disorders
Excessive cobalt can interfere with thyroid function, potentially leading to either hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism.
Food Sources
Animal-Based Food Sources of Cobalt
Plant-Based Food Sources of Cobalt
- Nori
- Tempeh
- Lentil
- Spinach
- Almond
- Sesame seed
- Kale
- Miso
- Spirulina
- Chickpea
Fun Facts
Fact 1: Cobalt’s Colorful History
Cobalt is known for its beautiful blue color and has been used by humans for thousands of years. The ancient Egyptians and Persians used cobalt blue pigment in jewelry and ceramics.
Fact 2: Cobalt’s Radioactive Isotope
Cobalt has a radioactive isotope, cobalt-60, which is used in medical treatments, particularly in radiation therapy for cancer. This isotope emits powerful gamma rays that can destroy cancer cells.
Fact 3: Cobalt and the Ocean
The world’s oceans contain large amounts of dissolved cobalt. This cobalt is important for the health of marine life, especially for plankton, which substitute cobalt for other trace minerals when they are scarce.
Fact 4: Cobalt in Batteries
While our focus is on nutrition and health, it’s worth noting that cobalt also plays a key role in technology. It is a key component of lithium-ion batteries that power everything from smartphones to electric vehicles.
