Vitamin B12 Deficiency: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment

If blood levels of B12 are low, a doctor may recommend injections to quickly raise them. In these cases, B12 injections may improve energy levels and overall well-being. Certain groups are more likely to benefit from B12 injections, especially those with low levels of this vitamin.
  • Fruit juice and smoothies also count, but because they contain ‘free’ sugars (the type we are encouraged to cut back on), you should limit these to a combined total of 150ml per day.
  • Especially as we age, vitamin B12 is vital for brain health.
  • There are a range of foods that contain vitamin B.
  • Insomnia ranks among possible side effects, linked more to bupropion.
  • Furthermore, caffeine interferes with the metabolism of certain B vitamins, including thiamine.
  • Vitamin B12 is an essential nutrient that plays a critical role in various bodily functions, including energy production, nerve function, and the formation of red blood cells.
  • Although vitamin B12 side effects are rare, some people may experience headache, swelling, anxiousness and itching when they’ve consumed too much vitamin B12 or have a reaction to a dietary supplement.
Some people can develop a vitamin B12 deficiency as a result of not getting enough vitamin B12 from their diet. If your diet includes meat, fish or shellfish, milk, and other dairy products, you should be able to meet the recommended daily requirements without taking a vitamin B12 supplement. Vitamin B12 is a nutrient that helps keep your body's blood and nerve cells healthy and helps make DNA, the genetic material in all of your cells. If your B12 deficiency is due to inadequate vitamins in your diet, you may be prescribed B12 tablets to be taken in between your meals.

What Is Vitamin B12 and Why Does Your Body Need It?

Some weight loss clinics and health spas offer B12 shots as part of their wellness or fat-burning programs. These injections are often advertised as a way to boost energy, speed up metabolism, and help the body burn fat more quickly. Whether you’re considering B12 shots, injections, or dietary changes, the key is to focus on a holistic approach to weight management. B12 injections are often included in weight loss programs, but does B12 injections help you lose weight? It’s a great choice—I’ve trusted DEVA with several other supplements in the past, and I’ve had no problems with any of them. I love the smell of the vitamins (citrus), too. This is due to the interactions it has with certain foods that can decrease its absorption with those foods. It also increases the frequency of urination, which can flush the vitamins out of your system early on. Caffeine interferes with the absorption of many vitamins and minerals. For more information on maintaining adequate Vitamin B12 levels, you can visit this resource. It is found primarily in animal products, such as meat, fish, and dairy products, making it a potential concern for individuals following a vegetarian or vegan diet. Vitamin B12 is essential for the metabolism of fatty acids and amino acids, which are important for energy production. She is an avid CrossFitter and a passionate home cook who loves spending time with her big fit Greek family. That said, you may want to try taking your supplement first thing in the morning before you've eaten anything.

ABOUT YOUR OTHER VITAMINS

By working with your body’s natural processes, you turn that supplement into a powerful tool for your day. Because B12 is so central to your body’s energy production, taking it right before bed can sometimes act like a mild stimulant. While bioavailability from supplements is already about 50% higher than from food, absorption rates plummet once the IF system gets saturated. To get why morning is the undisputed best time to take vitamin B12, we need to look at how your body actually uses it. But these benefits come from correcting the deficiency—not from the B12 shot causing weight loss on its own. This may lead to more energy, better mood, and the ability to be more physically active, which could support weight loss efforts. In these cases, B12 shots can help restore healthy levels. Some people may benefit from B12 injections, especially if they have low B12 levels. Although B12 is essential for health, most research shows that it does not directly lead to weight loss in people who already have normal B12 levels. Improving B12 levels may boost energy and help support long-term weight loss efforts when part of a full health plan. This may help people feel more able to exercise or follow a diet plan, which can lead to weight loss over time. Many people are curious if vitamin B12 injections can help with weight loss. B12 weight loss shots are injections that deliver a high dose of vitamin B12 directly into the body.

The 9 Best Vitamins for Hair, Skin, and Nails

What is the best time of day to take vitamin B12? – Older adults – The ability to absorb vitamin B12 declines with age. It also boosts energy through protein and fat metabolism (10). – Energy metabolism – Vitamin B12 helps convert carbohydrates into glucose to produce energy.
  • If you have Crohn's disease, you want a shot instead because it absorbs into your bloodstream, making it a more effective absorption method.
  • For those who have been diagnosed with vitamin B12 deficiencies due to diet, medical conditions, or age, a dedicated vitamin B12 supplement can help alleviate some of the unappealing side effects.
  • In weight-loss injections, the most common forms of B12 are methylcobalamin, hydroxocobalamin, and cyanocobalamin.
  • Some people have health conditions that make it hard to absorb vitamin B and can benefit from a supplement as a result.
  • Vitamin B12 is an essential vitamin that’s crucial for many vital metabolic and hormonal functions — including the production of digestive enzymes and carrying important nutrients into and out of cells.
  • Weight loss requires a sustainable lifestyle change, including a healthy diet and regular exercise, rather than a quick fix.
  • More than two-thirds of Brits admit to taking supplements in an attempt to improve their health, according to Mintel data, but are they actually worth it?
Common Causes of Dandruff (With Pictures) and Tips for How to Avoid Them
Vitamin B12 deficiency can be hard to detect, especially considering how common the symptoms of a vitamin B12 deficiency can be, such as feeling tired or unfocused. Vitamin B12 can be found to some degree in fortified plant foods like nutritional yeast, fortified grain products and algae sea vegetables. An autoimmune disorder called pernicious anemia is a type of megaloblastic anemia that occurs when the body isn’t able to absorb vitamin B12 properly. Goodman, J. E., Lavigne, J. A., Wu, K., Helzlsouer, K. J., Strickland, P. T., Selhub, J., and Yager, J. D. COMT genotype, micronutrients in the folate metabolic pathway and breast cancer risk. Thomson, S. W., Heimburger, D. C., Cornwell, P. E., Turner, M. E., Sauberlich, H. E., Fox, L. M., and Butterworth, C. E. Effect of total plasma homocysteine on cervical dysplasia risk. Goodman, M. T., McDuffie, K., Hernandez, B., Wilkens, L. R., and Selhub, J. Case-control study of plasma folate, homocysteine, vitamin B(12), and cysteine as markers of cervical dysplasia. Shannon, J., Thomas, D. B., Ray, R. M., Kestin, M., Koetsawang, A., Koetsawang, S., Chitnarong, K., Kiviat, N., and Kuypers, J. Dietary risk factors for invasive and in-situ cervical carcinomas in Bangkok, Thailand.
  • This proactive approach helps you avoid potential deficiencies that can hinder your weight loss efforts and overall health.
  • A simple blood test can confirm your B12 levels, and your healthcare provider can help determine whether injections are necessary.
  • But what many don’t realize is that the best time to take vitamin B12 can dramatically change how the body absorbs and uses it.
  • Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
  • Because it helps with energy and cell function, some believe it may help the body burn calories faster or improve weight loss results.
  • B12 for weight loss is gaining buzz in 2025 as people seek natural ways to shed pounds.
  • 90 milligrams of vitamin C per day to support immune function, wound healing, and antioxidant protection.
  • If you find that your supplement is irritating your stomach, Keatley suggested splitting the dose into two smaller servings throughout the day.
  • This timing ensures B12’s energizing effects align with your natural awakening instead of competing with sleep preparation later in the day.
As your sleep hormone melatonin naturally drops in the morning, B12 can support the transition from sleep metabolism to active daytime metabolism. Your body temperature naturally fluctuates throughout the day, and peak temperature periods indicate when your metabolism is running hottest. The combination creates a solid morning routine that addresses multiple aspects of health without adding complexity to your day. Getting morning light and taking B12 together improved both my energy during the day and my sleep at night. Sleep tips: 6 steps to better sleep Most people who eat non-vegetarian food meet their B12 needs. Department of Health and Human, the daily recommended intake for vitamin B12 is 2.4 micrograms for adults over the age of 18 years. If you’re severely B12 deficient, your doctor may recommend B12 injections into a muscle, making the vitamin readily available to your system. There are several B12 supplements available in the market. People who are all about these shots claim that they can give you more energy, boost your metabolism, and help you lose weight in the process—but uh, none of that is true for the average person. According to the NIH, the daily recommended allowance for vitamin B-12 is 2.4 micrograms for both men and women (it goes up to 2.6 micrograms for pregnant women, and 2.8 micrograms for those who are nursing). Of course, the idea grew from there, and somewhere along the line, B-12 shots started getting linked with weight loss. B-12 shots for weight loss is one of them. If you want to incorporate B12 shots into your weight loss or wellness journey, Be You Medical is here to help with medical weight loss in Sacramento. To find out if a food has added vitamin B12, check the Nutrition Facts label. The amount of vitamin B12 you need each day depends on your age. Vitamin B12 also helps prevent megaloblastic anemia, a blood condition that makes people tired and weak. When taken at recommended levels, no adverse effects have been noted. If you follow a primarily vegetarian or vegan diet, supplementing B12 is quite common. It should also be guided by a healthcare provider who checks blood levels and makes sure the body is responding well. For healthy people without a deficiency, there is no one-size-fits-all schedule. These side effects are not dangerous for most healthy people. Choline may not cause weight loss directly, but it supports a healthy liver, which is essential for burning fat efficiently. B12 is included in these injections because it helps the body convert food into energy. They are best used in conjunction with a healthy diet and regular exercise to achieve sustainable weight loss. Consult with a healthcare professional today to determine if weight loss injections are right for you. "Psyllium supplements or foods fortified with psyllium can help reach the daily target in addition to eating fruits, vegetables, and whole grains," King says. If your levels are low, taking vitamin B12 supplements is an easy, reliable, and safe way to treat or prevent B12 deficiency. While some research suggests a connection between B12 levels and weight management, its role is not fully understood and it works best when paired with a healthy diet and active lifestyle. Vitamin B12 supplementation can help improve energy levels by supporting the production of red blood cells, which carry oxygen to your muscles and organs. The main reason why vitamin B12 is unlikely to lead to weight loss is that it primarily affects energy metabolism, not fat burning. In fact, many studies have failed to find a substantial link between vitamin B12 supplementation and weight loss. This suggests that Vitamin B12 may be more effective as a weight loss tool when used in conjunction with a healthy lifestyle.
Dementia and cognitive function
Before you look into purchasing thyroid health supplements, be sure to consult with a healthcare professional. This includes prescription or nonprescription (over-the-counter OTC) medicines and herbal or vitamin supplements. Also tell your health care professional if you have any other types of allergies, such as to foods, dyes, preservatives, or animals. She’s also written more than a dozen health books for Rodale, Reader’s Digest, and Hearst including, Lower Your Blood Pressure Naturally (Rodale;2014). Harrar started and ran the Kids’ Health Blog for the Philadelphia Inquirer in 2013 and was health news editor for Prevention magazine from 1998 to 2004. Sari Harrar is an award-winning freelance journalist specializing in health, medicine, and science. Her experience includes corporate wellness, teaching for the American College of Sports Medicine, sports nutrition, weight management, integrative medicine, oncology support, and dialysis. Kara Andrew, RDN, LDN, is the director of health promotion for Memorial Hospital in Carthage, Illinois.
Other Factors to Consider for Weight Loss
This can be tough for people with certain health conditions that make it difficult to absorb vitamin B12. “You can consume vitamin B12 through eggs, dairy, fish and meat, or through fortified foods such as some plant-based milks, cereals or nutritional yeast.” Most of us don’t give this vitamin much thought, but it’s super-essential for maintaining good health. Taking your vitamin consistently is most important, but there is a time of day you might want to prioritize it. Personal energy patterns reflect your unique combination of genetics, lifestyle, stress levels, and health status.
  • They may help with energy or mood, but they are not a replacement for other changes.
  • These six approaches basically all do the same thing – they catch your metabolism when it’s naturally revving up for the day.
  • The shots can be given by a healthcare provider or, in some cases, at home.
  • But doses up to 8,000 mg per day are generally considered safe.
  • Inflammation is a known obstacle to weight loss, as it can lead to insulin resistance, metabolic slowdown, and increased hunger.
  • Depending on your meal plan, fat-soluble vitamin supplements can be taken with any meal of the day, as long as they contain dietary fats to ensure maximum absorption.
  • However, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any supplementation regimen.
  • Grapes have a low energy density — 1 cup of grapes has about 104 calories.
Some common signs include low energy, brain fog, tingling hands or feet, pale skin, and difficulty focusing. Many Americans experience Vitamin B12 deficiency symptoms without even realizing it. It helps you start your day with clarity and strength instead of fighting sluggishness. We specialize in helping clients achieve their weight loss and wellness goals with our dedicated team of experts supporting each individual on their journey to a healthier, more fulfilling lifestyle. You can also learn more about vitamin B12, weight loss, and wellness by exploring the ThinWorks blog and client resources.​ If you are looking for vitamin B12 injections in Palm Beach Gardens, ThinWorks provides professional, medically supervised B12 injection services tailored to your health needs. At ThinWorks, B12 injections are administered and monitored by experienced professionals, allowing your provider to tailor your dose and schedule to your specific energy, metabolism, and weight‑management goals.​ Vitamin B12 injections deliver the vitamin directly into your bloodstream, bypassing the digestive tract and providing faster, more reliable absorption.
  • Taking these with a meal or a snack may improve absorption of some vitamins (the fat soluble ones), although you can take a multivitamin at any time.
  • While B12 injections are generally safe, they must be used the right way to avoid problems and ensure the best results.
  • However, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional before taking high doses of vitamin B12, especially if you have any underlying medical conditions.
  • If left untreated, vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to severe problems, including neurological (nervous system) damage that can’t be reversed.
  • Often packed with more beneficial vitamins and minerals than the produce inside, vegetable peels should be enjoyed.
  • This means that adults over 50 years old need to consume even higher amounts of vitamin B12 daily.
  • Deciding whether to take a multivitamin during weight loss isn’t about following trends or chasing shortcuts.
But for people who already have enough B12, the added benefit of more may be very small. Together, these are said to help the body burn fat faster. Another reason for the popularity of B12 injections is that they are often included in “lipotropic” injections. However, it is important to look at what medical research says about these effects. They are usually given by a nurse or doctor, although some people use self-injection kits at home. With this easy recipe, all you need are a few staple pantry ingredients and 5 minutes, for a versatile, filling, and quick smoothie that'll keep you going through the day. Tossing fruit in a blender beats cooking and washing dishes (and that's coming from people who cook for a living). Food is expensive these days, and there’s no reason to waste good-for-you and tasty vegetable peels that often get discarded.
  • Keep pills visible in a daily organizer to avoid forgetting.
  • One of its advantages is in how the body absorbs the vitamin way faster when injected.
  • One study found that a higher intake of B vitamins, including vitamin B12, was linked to a lower rate of age-related macular degeneration.
  • Weekly injections are common for people who are starting a new weight loss program or have low energy levels.
  • Your body can store this vitamin for up to four years (6).
  • The farms that supply the ingredients for the supplement may use organic soil, harvesting the plants at peak timing.
  • It’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional before taking Vitamin B12 supplements, especially if you have any underlying medical conditions or take medications.
Maybe your mind turns to cartoon-shaped chewable tablets or the many selections in the supplement aisle. Indeed, it is important for energy metabolism, which can disrupt sleep if taken at night. “Food should always be the primary source of nutrition, but if someone feels they are not getting adequate amounts of B12—or any other supplement—for any reason, they should discuss it with their physician.” “It’s also essential to note that while a B12 deficiency may contribute to cognitive decline, it is not the sole cause of dementia,” Dr. Soffer says. Other B-group vitamins are needed to help cells to multiply by making new DNA. At Home Dining Kitchen, we believe that cooking is not just a task; it’s a delightful journey that brings people together. Additionally, vegans should be mindful of their intake of processed and packaged foods and try to limit their consumption of these foods as much as possible. Some people say it boosts their energy, so they take it in the morning, but there's not much solid research to back up those claims for people who have normal levels of vitamin B12 in their body. First, talk to your health care provider if you have any risk factors for vitamin B12 deficiency, or if you think your diet is not providing you with an adequate amount of vitamin B12. But if you’re generally healthy and looking to optimize your energy and weight loss efforts, strategic B12 timing can make a real difference. Since vitamin B12 is linked to energy production and neurological stimulation, the best time to take B12 for weight loss is typically in the morning. That said, the best time to take your vitamins might be whenever you’re most likely to remember to take them. Here’s what science says about the best time to take vitamins. Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin) is an essential B vitamin that serves as a cofactor for methionine synthase and methylmalonyl-CoA mutase enzymes, which supports DNA synthesis, nerve myelination, and energy production while reducing homocysteine levels. Different nutrients are absorbed better at specific times of day. Alternatively, you could consider leading a healthier lifestyle, which helps you keep off the excess weight at bay and for the long haul. It would still be best to talk to your doctor if you are interested in using this regimen for weight loss. So, many people have been getting vitamin B12 shots to help them shed pounds. Changes in gut health may also be experienced because oestrogen levels appear to influence the community of microbes known as the gut microbiome. During this time, levels of hormones such as oestrogen, testosterone and progesterone start to naturally fluctuate and you may experience a host of symptoms from hot flushes to disrupted sleep to mood swings. Rye grain doesn’t give you the insulin spike that wheat does, so a simple swap to rye bread or crackers may make it easier to manage blood sugar levels and curb carb cravings. That said, fermented foods may not suit everyone – if you suffer with histamine intolerance you may need to limit or avoid these foods. These foods supply a good amount of all the essential amino acids, the building blocks of protein, which you need for growth and repair, including one called leucine, which is key for making muscle tissue. Once your levels are stabilized, some individuals may switch to monthly injections or less frequent dosing, depending on their dietary intake and blood test results. The frequency of B12 shots for weight loss can vary based on individual needs, dietary habits, and health conditions. When combined with a balanced diet and exercise, B12 injections may assist in boosting your metabolism, which can ultimately support weight loss efforts. Once satisfactory weight loss and energy levels are achieved, the frequency may be reduced to once a month. During the initial phase of a weight loss program, some healthcare professionals recommend receiving B12 injections once a week. Let’s take a look at what the evidence says about the best vitamins for hair, skin, and nails. However serious risks, such as very low blood glucose (hypoglycemia) and lactic acidosis, are possible. This includes processed and packaged foods, such as white bread, chips, and sugary cereals. If you’re considered to be obese or overweight, you’re also at a higher risk of developing ED. The trophoblast and the cytotrophoblast are indicated in light red, the syncytiotrophoblast is stippled and maternal blood in lacunae is shown in red. Embryo cleavage time points up to 8-cell-stage (t2-t8) as well as morulae (tM) and blastocyst formation (tB) were registered in hours after ICSI. As the details of its developmental biology and pathobiology became more established, widely divergent concepts about the embryo emerged in culture, religion, morals, ethics, and law1 and today underlie worldwide controversies about the very meaning of human life. The emphasis is on the history and varied contexts of developmental biology, focusing on people, places, institutions, techniques, literature, images, and other aspects of study of embryos. Omega-3 fats are essential for health and may help protect against cardiovascular disease, diabetes and cognitive decline. Examples of high-quality, ‘complete’ protein include meat, poultry, fish such as salmon and cod, and seafood including prawns. Portion these into a range of sizes to accommodate different appetite preferences on the day. Whether you have a vitamin B12 deficiency or want to prevent one, these are the vitamin B12 supplement benefits and risks to consider. If you have a vitamin B12 deficiency, this is everything you'll want to know before considering supplements. There’s no direct treatment or antidote for high B12 levels from food, supplements or treatments. A 2019 Tufts and Harvard study found that despite the $43-billion supplement industry marketing that states otherwise, people who took a multivitamin lived no longer than those that didn’t. This high-potency formula contains a range of antioxidants to help protect against free radical damage and support healthy aging, with nutrients such as vitamin C, vitamin D, and zinc supporting immune function. As we age, our bodies become less efficient at absorbing nutrients, making supplementation of certain vitamins and minerals more important for those over 50. I have been a long time user of Thorne's supplements, including its creatine. Whether or not I took it with food, it was gentle on my stomach—a far cry from some bulky multivitamins that require a meal to go down. B vitamins are naturally present in many foods, added to food products and available as dietary supplements. Additionally helping to improve energy levels all day, morning supplements encourage an active lifestyle necessary for weight loss. Particularly among those who are weak in the vitamin, some think that B12 supplements can increase energy levels, lower tiredness, and possibly improve weight loss attempts. And Grimley, Evans J. Folic acid with or without vitamin B12 for the prevention and treatment of healthy elderly and demented people. Clarke, R., Harrison, G., and Richards, S. Effect of vitamins and aspirin on markers of platelet activation, oxidative stress and homocysteine in people at high risk of dementia. Degradation of vitamin B12 in dietary supplements. While a B12 deficiency isn’t likely to directly cause weight gain, it can interfere with energy levels, making staying active more challenging. If your body isn’t absorbing the B12 you’re consuming, it can lead to low levels and an increased risk of megaloblastic anemia, a condition characterized by low levels of red blood cells larger than normal 13.

Recommended Dosage of Vitamin B12 for Weight Loss

Reproductive health Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is a water-soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in various bodily functions. By considering all of these factors, you can confidently navigate your way to a healthier, lighter you. Always inform your healthcare provider about your current medications to avoid adverse interactions. When your body doesn't receive enough vitamin B12, it slows the growth of red blood cells. Without a healthy dose of regular vitamin B12, you can become anemic. Vitamin B12 with vitamin B9 (folate) helps your body replenish the red blood cells you lost. Cyanocobalamin is the synthetic form of vitamin B12, broken down into methylcobalamin and adenosylcobalamin in supplements.
  • A diet that includes meat, fish and dairy products usually provides enough vitamin B12, but people who do not regularly eat these foods can become deficient.
  • The U.S. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine sets the recommended daily amounts of B12 in the U.S.
  • These once daily softgels from Nature Made are incredibly budget-friendly but still high-quality.
  • Serious Eliquis side effects include severe bleeding and dizziness or confusion.
  • Early dinner timing allows you to get the metabolic benefits without the energizing effects extending into your sleep preparation time.
  • “Some people prefer taking them in the morning with breakfast to establish a habit.
  • Experts will often recommend the methylated form if you are looking to maximize absorption, although the synthetic version can also maintain your B12 levels in most cases.
  • Men need 900 micrograms of vitamin A per day to support vision, immune function, and skin health.
When appetites are small, every mouthful counts so opt for nutrient dense options, choosing high-calorie foods where possible. Some simple changes like modifying your diet and making the eating experience more enjoyable may improve our health status and quality of life as we age. As you go through constant changes in life, it’s essential to adjust your diet to make sure you’re getting your nutritional needs.
  • Including these foods in your diet can help maintain your B12 levels and potentially enhance the effectiveness of the injections.
  • Sedjo, R. L., Roe, D. J., Abrahamsen, M., Harris, R. B., Craft, N., Baldwin, S., and Giuliano, A. R. Vitamin A, carotenoids, and risk of persistent oncogenic human papillomavirus infection.
  • It also pairs well with a B‑complex formula that includes other B vitamins like B6 and folate, since these work together on energy production, brain health, and mood.​
  • Carlsen SM, Folling I, Grill V, et al. Metformin increases total homocysteine levels in non-diabetic male patients with coronary heart disease.
  • To avoid this interaction, take vitamin C two or more hours after taking a vitamin B-12 supplement.
  • When you work out, your muscles produce more heat, which warms your body and raises your temperature.
  • But your healthcare provider can advise you about how much vitamin B12 you should look for in a supplement.
With timer settings, three heat modes and a sleek stainless steel design, it’s ideal for families (it's also available in a 6.5-litre size if you need to feed more). Simply select your main ingredient, input the weight and desired finish time, and the Time Select will automatically adjust the cooking time and temperature of the ingredients to get the best results. We all know that life can throw us curveballs, so if you’re not able to get home before the timer is up, the Easy Time slow cooker will keep your food at the optimum temperature for two hours. The keys to sweets are to keep the serving size small and the ingredients healthy. Good options for sweets include those that are low in added fat and contain healthy ingredients, such as fruits, whole grains and low-fat dairy. Do you suffer from constant fatigue, or lack of energy? How important is vitamin B12, and how much vitamin B12 should I take? So next time you go to the doctor, check and see if you need some B12 in your life. Studies continue to show all the ways it is beneficial for your overall health. Some research suggests vitamin B12 deficiency is linked to an increased risk of cancer, but more studies are needed. You can increase your intake of vitamin B12 naturally by eating animal-based foods rich in vitamin B12, such as fish, meat, and dairy. If you don’t eat animal products or if you have certain health conditions, you may be more likely to have a vitamin B12 deficiency. If you’re concerned your B12 levels may be subpar, get your levels checked and maintain proper levels with Performance Lab NutriGenesis® Multi, the world’s most innovative multivitamin. A 2019 study published in Frontiers of Endocrinology found that sufficient levels of vitamin B12 are inversely linked to obesity 11. Rodent studies have noted similar results, showing that low B12 led to substantial increases in body fat and cholesterol levels 9. Then you’ll inject 1,000 mcg once weekly for 1 month, followed by once-a-month injections thereafter. It’s more common to inject 1,000 mcg (1 mL) once daily for 1 week. But many healthcare professionals follow a different dosing schedule for injectable cyanocobalamin. From there, the dosage can be extended to 100 mcg every other day for 14 days (7 doses), then every 3 to 4 days for several more weeks. For even more health benefits, aim for at least 60 minutes of physical activity most days of the week. You might start with five minutes a day the first week, and then increase your time by five minutes each week until you reach at least 30 minutes. Even small amounts of physical activity are helpful, and accumulated activity throughout the day adds up to provide health benefit. Some health problems can make it harder for the body to absorb vitamin B12 from food. Most likely, any weight loss seen during these programs is due to a combination of healthy lifestyle changes, not just the injection. This may help some people become more physically active, which could lead to weight loss over time. One study found that when 1,000 mcg oral vitamin B12 supplements were given, absorption decreased from about 60% at 8 AM to 20% at 4 PM (19). This means it’s important to consume vitamin B12 regularly to maintain adequate levels (2). Deficiencies in vitamin B12 are extremely common because the vitamin can be difficult to absorb; however, taking supplements can make this battle easier. When taking vitamin B12 as a supplement, it’s important to know how to manage the timing of it. Avoid high-fat foods near the dose to minimize absorption changes and risks. Common signs of vitamin B12 deficiency include fatigue, tingling or numbness in hands and feet, pale skin, poor memory, low mood, and brain fog. If any step is disrupted like low stomach acid or poor gut health, absorption falls, leading to deficiency. While not everyone will notice this effect, it’s generally safer to take B12 earlier in the day to avoid insomnia or restlessness. Vitamin B12 is an important nutrient that helps your body make red blood cells and DNA, the genetic material in all of your cells. While it’s not a miracle cure, pairing B12 with a balanced diet and exercise can lead to real results. Women should aim for 2.4–1000 mcg daily, depending on deficiency and goals. Want to make the most of B12 for weight loss? Lastly, she says that people with gastrointestinal disorders such as pernicious anemia, celiac disease, Crohn's disease or those taking specific medications may experience impaired B12 absorption, and proper supplementation can help maintain optimal levels. That's why at even large doses, it is typically safe to consume vitamin B12 as the body will not store excess amounts, but some side effects may occur such as digestive upset. If you aren't getting the necessary amount of vitamin B12 daily, a deficiency may occur. "For most adult women, the recommended daily intake of vitamin B12 is around 2.4 micrograms (mcg)," Agyeman explains, adding that pregnant and lactating women may need slightly more, usually around 2.6 to 2.8 mcg per day. "Vitamin B12 (aka cobalamin) is a vitamin involved in many processes in our bodies such as energy metabolism, red blood cell formation and nerve function," Meshulam says. It helps make red blood cells, supports nerve health, and helps turn food into energy. This means eating fewer calories, choosing healthy foods, getting regular exercise, and having medical support. It is used to keep the body healthy while losing weight through other means. So far, no high-quality research has shown that B12 alone causes significant weight loss in people who are not deficient in the vitamin. Some of the best food sources of vitamin B12 include grass-fed beef, wild salmon, and Greek yogurt. If supplementation is necessary, it is essential to choose a high-quality supplement that is bioavailable and easily absorbed by the body. It is also important to note that the best way to get vitamin B12 is through a balanced diet that includes animal products, such as meat, fish, and dairy.

Why Vitamin B12 Matters for Daily Energy

Minor bleeding is one of the most common side effects of taking Eliquis. Let’s look at seven Eliquis side effects in more detail, including how to manage them and when to seek medical care. Keep in mind that you may experience side effects that aren’t listed here. But keep in mind that a lower risk isn’t the same as no risk at all. That’s because Eliquis and other DOACs have a lower risk of bleeding events compared to warfarin. Your stress hormone cortisol naturally peaks twice a day – early morning and around noon. Think of it as helping your body be better at using whatever fuel is available. This timing works especially well for people with demanding afternoon schedules or those who struggle with afternoon snacking. The afternoon dip often triggers cravings, poor food choices, and that “I need caffeine or sugar immediately” feeling. Your digestive system, blood flow, and cellular activity are all operating at peak capacity. It’s not that increasing your vitamin B12 levels alone will make you lose weight, but correcting a deficiency can boost your energy levels and regulate your appetite so you can continue your health routine. This is a big deal because B12 plays an important role in so many body functions, which is exactly why it’s critical that we get enough vitamin B12 foods in our diets. Simply increasing your B12 intake, either with foods, supplements or injections, will not solve your problem if you are unable to absorb the vitamin properly.