What is Cobalt & Why do we need it?

Even though only small amounts of cobalt are needed by the system and a safe RDA (recommended dietary allowance) for daily intake has not yet been established, this valuable element is involved in many key bodily operations. Some of these functions comprise the proper synthesis of red blood cells, ensuring elevated nervous system activity, breakdown of sugars and energy metabolism, preserving thyroid hormone regulation, as well as allowing optimal iron absorption by cells. Cobalt can't be synthesized by the body and hence must be derived from food. Several dietary resources contain volumes of cobalt, namely cabbage, lettuce, whole grain cereals such as barley, oats, besides dairy produce, animal meat, fish, oysters and eggs. 

Functions:

Cobalt is an integral part of vitamin B12 and essential for the function of cells. It is also involved in the production of red blood cells and the production of antibacterial and antiviral compounds that prevent infections. It also plays a key role in the metabolism of fats and carbohydrates and the synthesis of proteins and conversion of folate in their active form. In the nervous system, cobalt is responsible for preventing demyelination leading to multiple sclerosis, which is a condition that results in damage to the membrane that covers the nerve fibers in the brain and spinal cord. Such prevention ensures the efficient transmission of nerve impulses.