With people leading ever-more busy lives, and the growing availability of vitamin supplementation, B12 shots are becoming a common vitamin boost.
Vitamin B12 plays a crucial role in the body’s metabolic processes such as red blood cell formation, DNA synthesis and neurological function1. It is probably most well-known for its assistance in coping with stress and its function in maintaining energy levels.
With people leading ever-more busy lives, and the growing availability of vitamin supplementation, B12 shots are becoming a common vitamin boost.
Vitamin B12 plays a crucial role in the body’s metabolic processes such as red blood cell formation, DNA synthesis and neurological function1. It is probably most well-known for its assistance in coping with stress and its function in maintaining energy levels.
B12 is part of the B group of vitamins, which, along with vitamin C, are water soluble. Vitamins A, D and E are fat soluble; they can build up in fatty tissue to potentially toxic levels over repeated overexposure, whereas excess water-soluble vitamins are excreted by the body through urine.
The body cannot make B12 – it must be obtained by animal-based foods or supplements2. Vegans, vegetarians or individuals with digestive disorders affecting absorption are most at risk to be vitamin B12 deficient3. Symptoms of this deficiency range from pale skin to depression, however, it can be confirmed with a simple blood test (it should be noted that this can sometimes give a false “normal” result, so if you are concerned talk to your doctor about the secondary tests available)4.
B12 is part of the B group of vitamins, which, along with vitamin C, are water soluble. Vitamins A, D and E are fat soluble; they can build up in fatty tissue to potentially toxic levels over repeated overexposure, whereas excess water-soluble vitamins are excreted by the body through urine.
The body cannot make B12 – it must be obtained by animal-based foods or supplements2. Vegans, vegetarians or individuals with digestive disorders affecting absorption are most at risk to be vitamin B12 deficient3. Symptoms of this deficiency range from pale skin to depression, however, it can be confirmed with a simple blood test (it should be noted that this can sometimes give a false “normal” result, so if you are concerned talk to your doctor about the secondary tests available)4.
SOME OF THE MANY BENEFITS OF VITAMIN B12 INCLUDE
MORE ENERGY
B12 is needed to convert carbohydrates into usable glucose for energy5 (one of the reasons people deficient in the vitamin often report fatigue). It also is responsible for a neurotransmitter which tells your muscles to contract, resulting in movement feeling easier.
IMPROVED MOOD
The regulation of the nervous system is one of the most well-researched aspects of vitamin B12. B12, along with Folate, produce a compound called SAM (S-adenosyl methionine) which is crucial for neurological function and dealing with stress and moodregulation. A deficiency of B12 can sometimes manifest as mood disorders, depression, and the lack of ability to concentrate6.
HEART HEALTH
Heart disease is a leading cause of death worldwide. Vitamin B12 not only lowers homocysteine levels in the blood but can also potentially help with high cholesterol and high blood pressure7. All benefits that contribute to a decreased risk of heart attack or stroke.
HEALTHY HAIR & SKIN
Since B12 plays a significant role in cell reproduction, it is crucial for healthy skin and hair. It can reduce skin redness, dryness, and acne scarring, and can help strengthen nails and reduce hair breakage8.
B12 can be supplemented orally, but the absorption rates are higher (and results more immediate) via intramuscular or IV administration. At The Dose, we use Neurobion Vitamin B, which comes with B1, B6 and B12 (and creates to the IV’s pink colour). The B12 in this formula is B12 Cyanocobalamin 5000mcg. There are various forms of B12 on the market, but no scientific consensus on the advantages of one over another. We encourage individuals to find the formula that best suits their unique needs.
References
1. （Vitamin B12 in Health and Disease，2013）
2. （Vitamin B12 Deficiency as a Worldwide Problem，2004）
3. （Vitamin B12 Sources and Bioavailability，2007）
4. （Undetected vitamin B12 deficiency due to false normal assay results，2013）
5. （Cobalamin (Coenzyme B12): Synthesis and Biological Significance，1996）
6. （Psychiatric manifestations of vitamin B12 deficiency: a case report，2003）
7. （Vitamin B12 insufficiency induces cholesterol biosynthesis by limiting s-adenosylmethionine and modulating the methylation of SREBF1 and LDLR genes，2015）
8. （A Review of Vitamin B12 in Dermatology，2015）