B12 also called cobalamin

Vitamin B12 has become one of the most popular and controversial vitamins.

Found naturally in the foods we eat

Lack of vitamin B12 can cause anemia

One of eight B vitamins

Vitamin B12 is a water soluble vitamin

It is commonly used with other B vitamins

Helps with brain and nervous system function

Help with the formation of blood

B12 is found in◦Beef liver & Liver Best source

◦Fish◦Shellfish◦Meat◦Eggs◦Dairy products

The recommended amount of B12 depends on your age.◦Most people get more then the

recommended amount in there daily diet Adults need 2.4 micrograms (mcg) Pregnant teens and women need 2.6 mcg

Breastfeeding teens and women 2.8 mcg

Heart disease◦ Has not been proven to help prevent heart as

once thought

Dementia◦ Scientist do not know if B12 can help prevent or

treat dementia

Energy and athletic performance ◦ Has not been proven to increase energy levels,

except in people with B12 deficiency

Deficiency may be due to◦ Poor diet◦ Lack of nutrition during pregnancy◦ Vegetarian diet

Symptoms◦ Red tongue◦ Pale skin◦ Fatigue◦ Loss of appetite

Treatment◦ B12 shoots once a month◦ High-dose B12 vitamin by mouth

If shoots are not need

Not having enough B12 can have adverse effects on your health.

Most People get more then the recommended amounts from food

Has not been proven to provide increased energy to individuals with deficiency

This information should not be used in the place of any medical advice given by your provider. If you have any questions about what is best for you and your overall health, you should talk to your doctor before using any dietary supplements.

Anemia-B12 deficiency. (2012, February 8). Retrieved from MedlinePlus: www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/000574.htm

Vitamin B12. (n.d.). Retrieved from Office of Dietary Supplements: http://ods.od/nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminsB12-QuickFacts/