Opening Keynote and George M. Briggs Nutrition Science Symposium - Focus on Vitamin B12: Past, Present and Future

Opening Keynote and George M. Briggs Nutrition Science Symposium - Focus on Vitamin B12: Past, Present and Future
8:00 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. | Constitution Ballroom |
Speakers: Marilyn Briggs, PhD, RD, University of California-Davis; Lindsay H. Allen, PhD, ARS Western Human Nutrition Research Center, UC Davis
In this symposium we will reflect on the historical role and effects of vitamin B12, as identified by a team including Dr. George Briggs himself nearly seventy years ago. Then, current research that helps us better understand the overall metabolic and physiological effects of vitamin B12 interventions will be reviewed. Because of the significant prevalence of vitamin B12 deficiencies globally, across age segments, it is important to understand the adverse consequences manifested with inadequate intakes. Responses to food-based and supplementation interventions, as well as the use of novel methods for measuring absorption, will be explored.
Learning Objectives:
Participants will gain knowledge around the functional consequences of vitamin B12 deficiencies.
Participants will gain knowledge on newer methods for assessing vitamin B12 absorption and B12 status biomarkers.
Participants will gain knowledge on folic acid/vitamin B12 interactions, specifically around the effects of fortification. Impacts on future policy discussions relative to fortification of certain foods will be reviewed.
Session sponsored by the SNEB Foundation.