Vitamin B-12 is a B-vitamin that supports energy metabolism and healthy heart function.** It also:
- Helps maintain nervous system health.**
- Aids in the normal development of red blood cells.**
- Supports healthy circulation.**
What is Vitamin B-12?
Famously known as an “energy vitamin,” B-12 is a water-soluble compound that plays a key role in energy metabolism.** B-12 also works with Folic Acid and Vitamin B12 to help maintain healthy homocysteine levels in the blood already within a normal range.** Vitamin B12 also helps to optimize nervous system health, and is a necessary component in the creation of red blood cells and DNA.**
Vitamin B-12 Deficiency
Despite its critical role in multiple aspects of well-being, B-12 is a nutrient that many Americans are missing. According to the CDC, one out of every 31 adults over the age of 51 is lacking in B-12†; other estimates show that those over age 60 have an even higher rate of deficiency. This B-12 shortfall may be partly attributed to the fact that older adults often have difficulty absorbing B-12. Since B-12 is normally found in animal-based foods, vegetarians and vegans are often deficient in the nutrient, as well.
Vitamin B-12 Products
B-12 supplements are typically found in two different forms: cyanocobalamin and methylcobalamin. Cyanocobalamin is the most common version, but it must be converted into methylcobalamin, the active form that is found circulating in our blood, to deliver health-enhancing activity in the body.** Methylcobalamin supplements allow your body to bypass this step for quicker absorption.**
Cyanocobalamin and methylcobalamin B-12 are available in B-complex supplements, usually in capsule, tablet or liquid form. B-12 supplements are also presented as standalone supplements. B-12 supplements may be tablets or capsules, but are perhaps most popular as sublingual liquids or lozenges that dissolve quickly under the tongue.
Vitamin B-12 Directions for Use
Consult with your health care professional before taking Vitamin B-12 supplements or beginning any routine supplementation. For those aged 14 and above, the B-12 RDA is 2.4 mcg daily. For pregnant women, the B-12 RDA is 2.6 mcg; this increases to 2.8 mcg for women who are nursing.
†http://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/b12/intro.html
