COBALT

Cobalt occurs in small amounts in all tissues ,highest concentration occurring in liver and
kidneys .most of the cobalt is present in vitamin B12.It is an essential nutrient for
prokaryotes ,human beings and other mammals but has not being considered an essential
micronutrient for plant.

a) Functions of cobalt
1. Vitamins B12 –it helps in overall better functioning of body in association with vitamin
B12 .Vitamin B12 which supports the good health of nervous system and the metabolic
process of the body .
2. Iron absorption – it also helps in the absorption of ion in the body .
3. Good heart health- it also maintains the good health of cardiovascular system. It helps to
reduce the levels of homocysteine which is responsible for the damage of arterial walls
and lead to arteriosclerosis.
4. Multiple sclerosis- it also aids in the repair of myelin sheath. It is a protective covering
which surrounds nerve axons which is responsible for proper conduction of nerve
impulse throughout body. So cobalt is good for the treatment of sclerosis because
sclerosis there is the breakdown of the sheath.
5. Proper synthesis of red blood cells.
6. Cobalt used for breakdown of sugars and energy metabolism.
7. Used in preserving thyrode hormone regulators.
b) Absorption of cobalt

Cobalt gets into the body with food and then it is absorbed in small intestine . then the metal gets
into the blood stream where it is bound to proteins and transported with blood to tissues and
cells.

Water soluble cobalt gets into the body through the gastrointestinal system and it is absorbed
from the small intestine to the blood. Moreover large quantities of metallic cobalt and its oxide in
dust and fumes get into the body through lungs and then they get to the lymphatic and vascular
system.
 c) Utilization of cobalt.

Cobalt is a component of vitamin B12, which supports the production of red blood cells. Very
small amounts are needed for animals and humans to stay healthy. Recommended intake the
average adult intake of cobalt is 5-to8 mcg per day. A safe recommended dietary allowance
(RDA) for cobalt has not been set yet.

d) Storage of cobalt

Conditions for safe storage. Store in a sealed container. Store in a cool dry area. Protect it from
acids.

Cobalt is an important trace element and is found mostly in bones, heart, pancreases, kidneys,
liver and skeletal muscle.

e) Factors that enhance absorption of cobalt.

The amount of cobalt in the body.

f) Food source of cobalt.

i. Red meat e.g kidney and liver
ii. Milk
iii. Fish
iv. Cabbage
v. Turnips
vi. Cereals.