Another Vitamin that I make sure to take on a daily basis is Vitamin B12.
Why is Vitamin B12 so important?
Vitamin B12 is very important for DNA synthesis and red blood cell production. It is also an important precursor for the nervous system and cardiovascular system. If you have a Vitamin B12 deficiency, you will likely have symptoms that include weakness, tiredness, inability to concentrate, nervousness, palpitations, and even anemia in severe cases.
Vitamin B12 is not produced by the body and has to be absorbed in our body by our food or through supplements. This vitamin is primarily in animal products so if you are vegan or vegetarian, it is very important that you supplement this vitamin every day.
The recommended dietary intake is listed below (from the National Institute of Health):
Age Male Female Pregnancy Lactation
0–6 months* 0.4 mcg 0.4 mcg
7–12 months* 0.5 mcg 0.5 mcg
1–3 years 0.9 mcg 0.9 mcg
4–8 years 1.2 mcg 1.2 mcg
9–13 years 1.8 mcg 1.8 mcg
14+ years 2.4 mcg 2.4 mcg 2.6 mcg 2.8 mcg
Things to keep in mind when using an oral supplement, the body will only absorb a certain amount. There are several factors that inhibit maximum absorption of this vitamin orally even when taken sublingually. According to the National Institute of Health, only 10mcg of 500mcg is actually absorbed orally. If you have a severe Vitamin B12 deficiency, talk to your doctor about getting a prescription for an injection as this bypasses any potential barriers to absorption.
My favorite choice is by Nature Made, Vitamin B12, 3000mcg sublingual.
Monique Diltz
Source:
https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminB12-HealthProfessional/#h2