Cobalt: The Team Player Mineral for Growing Bodies

Cobalt may sound like a superhero’s name, but it’s actually a tiny mineral that plays a big role in your family’s health! Let’s break down what parents need to know about cobalt in a fun and easy way.

What Does Cobalt Do?

• Vitamin B12’s Best Friend: Cobalt is a key part of vitamin B12, which is super important for making healthy red blood cells and keeping the nervous system working well.

• Energy and Growth: It helps your body use food for energy and supports the growth and repair of all your cells.

• Brain and Nerve Support: Cobalt helps protect the nerves and keeps the brain sharp, especially important for growing kids.

• Iron Helper: It helps your body absorb iron, which keeps blood healthy and helps prevent anemia (feeling tired and weak).

Where Can We Find Cobalt?

Most cobalt in our diet comes from vitamin B12 in foods such as:

• Meat (beef, pork, chicken)

• Fish and shellfish (like oysters and mussels)

• Eggs and dairy (milk, cheese, yogurt)

• Some leafy greens (like cabbage, spinach, and lettuce)

• Fortified cereals

Vegetarians and vegans may need to pay extra attention to getting enough vitamin B12, since it’s mostly found in animal foods.

What Happens If We Don’t Get Enough?

• Cobalt Deficiency = Vitamin B12 Deficiency: If you don’t get enough cobalt (through vitamin B12), you might develop anemia, feel tired, weak, or have trouble concentrating. Kids need enough for healthy growth and learning.

• Nerve Troubles: Not enough can also cause nerve problems, like tingling in the hands and feet.

Can You Get Too Much?

• Rare from Food: It’s very rare to get too much cobalt from food.

• Supplements and Safety: Taking too much in supplement form can cause problems like heart issues, thyroid problems, or nerve damage—so always follow your doctor’s advice and don’t give kids cobalt supplements unless recommended.

Fun Fact

Cobalt is so important for red blood cells that it’s used in special animal feeds to help cows and sheep stay healthy too!

In a nutshell:
Cobalt is a tiny but mighty mineral, mostly found as part of vitamin B12, that helps your family’s blood, brain, and nerves stay healthy. Eating a variety of foods—especially animal products and leafy greens—will help everyone in the family get what they need for strong bodies and sharp minds!