Vitamin B-12 is one of the important B vitamins. It is a term we often hear because many people tend to ignore how important it is for our well being and only lack of it creates awareness. The most important thing to remember is that Vitamin B12 s vital for red blood cell production and mental processes.
What is Vitamin B12?
It is a water-soluble vitamin which can dissolve in the bloodstream and travel through it. Excess B12 is excreted in urine and it can be stored in blood for 4 years. Vitamin B-12 is the most structurally complicated vitamin. It can be industrially produced only through bacterial fermentation-synthesis.
Why is Vitamin B12 required?
- Vitamin B-12 is crucial for the normal functioning of the brain and the central nervous system.
- The metabolism cells in the body depend on vitamin B-12.
- It plays a part in the synthesis of fatty acids.
- B12 is also involved in the formation of red blood cells and helps to create and regulate DNA.
- Vitamin B-12 helps to release energy by helping the body absorb folic acid.
Intake Requirements
According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), teens and adults over 14 years should have intake 2.4 micrograms (mcg) of vitamin B-12 per day. For pregnant women its 2.6 mcg and lactating women it is 2.8 mcg.
How to find out if you have Vitamin B12 Deficiency?
If you suffer from any of the following:
- Crohn’s disease, celiac disease, lupus or Graves’ disease you could have a B2 deficiency.
- Strict vegetarians and vegans who do not consume eggs and diary are also at a higher risk of developing a B12 deficiency
- Lack of Vitamin B12 in sufficient quantity could also cause anaemia related to vitamin deficiency.
- This could lead to mental confusion, anaemia, weight loss etc.
If you suspect that you’re deficient in B12 talk to your doctor, who may order a blood test and provide you with supplements.
Top 5 B12 supplements to boost your health
Nature Made
These Nature Made B12 soft gels can meet your body’s health needs with quality ingredients. Energy production, RBC synthesis, and support to the nervous system enable this supplement as a preferred choice of many. They are small and easy to swallow with fast shipment.
Price: $10.19
Jarrow’s Formula
We love the fact that these come in the form of Lozenges come and in three delicious flavors (lemon, cherry, and tropical). They are easy to consume and can be chewed or left to dissolve in the mouth. This lozenge provides high quality methylcobalamin B-12 and is a convenient method for obtaining biologically active B-12.
Price: $12.21
My Kind Organics
Just a single spray is enough to meet your daily requirement of Vitamin B12. This is made organically and comes in a delicious raspberry spray form. It is vegan, gluten free and protects your nervous system and prevents anaemia.
Price: $13.48
Vita Fusion
We have given you every option from spray and soft gels so we thought you would love these yummy gummies as well. They help with energy metabolism and nervous system support. The natural cherry flavor helps you relish the taste as you pop in one and it gives you high potency Vitamin B12.
Price: $12.75
Made in Utah
Finally, we have these drops which enable quick absorption and are more soluble than capsules. These drops keep you alert and energized throughout the day and come with no artificial flavors, lactose, sugar, shellfish, soy or artificial colors. Each easy to open bottle contains 60 ml, which is a full 60-day supply.
Price: $18.97
Side Effects
There are no reported side effects in most cases. It is not toxic even in excess and in most cases B12 reported acne has been observed. Cyanocobalamin is an injectable form of the supplement and it is said to contain traces of cyanide hence some concerns have been raised about its possible effects. However, it is said that many natural foods contain these traces, and it is therefore not so risky. Consume these supplements and feel energetic and healthy.
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