Vitamin B12 is an essential vitamin for your whole body and overall health. Since your body needs it but can't produce it on its own, you need to eat certain foods that are high in vitamin B12 in order to stay healthy. This vitamin is generally found in animal-based products but you can also take natural supplements or oral drops to catch up on your daily intake.

Vitamin B12 can benefit your body in many ways, so if you're wondering why you should include it in your diet, here are the 7 biggest health benefits of vitamin B12 to have in mind.

Brain health

Vitamin B12 deficiency may lead to brain atrophy, which is also known as loss of neurons, especially common in older adults. It has also been associated with memory loss and dementia.

Regular intake of vitamin B12 could prevent the loss of neurons and therefore reduce the risk of dementia. 

Various studies have been conducted to prove the impact of vitamin B12 on memory loss. For example, one study in people with early-stage dementia showed that a combination of vitamin B12 and omega-3 fatty acid supplements slowed the mental decline. Yet, more research is needed before we can be certain of the impact of vitamin B12 on dementia and memory loss. 

Pregnancy health

Adequate vitamin B12 levels are key to a healthy pregnancy. According to some studies, a fetus needs to get sufficient B12 levels from the mother to be able to develop properly. If the mother has vitamin B12 deficiency in the early stages of pregnancy, that could increase the risk of birth defects. Additionally, mothers with low levels of vitamin B12 are more likely to give birth prematurely or suffer from miscarriage. 

Improved mood and depression prevention

Vitamin B12 helps with serotonin production, which is a chemical responsible for regulating mood. Even though the full effect of this vitamin on mood is yet to be understood, some studies show that vitamin B12 deficiency may lead to decreased serotonin production. Some studies even show that people with vitamin B12 deficiency have twice the risk of severe depression. Also, scientists believe that vitamin B12 supplementation could help recover from a major depressive disorder.

Reduced risk of macular degeneration

Vitamin B12 plays a role in lowering homocysteine, which is a type of amino acid found in the bloodstream. Elevated homocysteine levels may lead to an increased risk of age-related macular degeneration which is an eye disease that could result in blurred or no vision in the center of the visual field. According to scientists, adequate levels of vitamin B12 may help reduce the risk of macular degeneration.

Bone health

Vitamin B12 plays a role in your bone health. Scientists found a connection between low levels of this vitamin and osteoporosis, leading them to believe that vitamin B12 deficiency could increase the risk of poor bone health. 

To maintain and improve your bone health, consider increasing your vitamin B12 intake by regulating your diet or taking supplements. 

Energy boost

Another benefit of vitamin B12 is that it may give you an energy boost. As a matter of fact, all B vitamins have an important role in supporting the body's energy production. Vitamin B12, in particular, may boost your energy levels when you don't have enough of them. But there's not sufficient proof to believe it can have any impact on people with already high levels of this vitamin.

As you probably know, one of the common symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency anemia is lack of energy and fatigue, so it's recommended to take a supplement to regulate this condition.

Prevents anemia

Vitamin B12 supports the body's red blood cells production, which is why inadequate levels of this vitamin may cause a reduction in red blood cell formation. Low vitamin B12 levels may also lead to altered production of red blood cells, causing megaloblastic anemia. Anemia may lead to symptoms like fatigue, weakness, and tiredness. 

The best way to increase your vitamin B12 levels is to increase your intake of foods such as beef, liver, chicken, dairy products, fish, fortified cereals, egg, as well as natural dietary supplements.

Our Energy Booster Plus B12 Drops may help you increase your vitamin B12 levels! With 1 full dropper (1ml) per day, you can give your body some extra energy*.

Our B-12 vitamin drops could help with red blood cell formation and you might experience increased energy levels, better digestion, and an overall improvement in both your body and mind*.

Vitamin B-12's benefits go beyond metabolism and energy improvement. From potentially improving your bone health and fighting osteoporosis to reducing your risk of developing macular degeneration, these drops could be a game-changer for your health.

Benefits of Vitamin B12: FAQ

What is Vitamin B12?

Vitamin B12 plays a vital role in helping your body produce red blood cells. Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is an essential vitamin that your body needs but cannot produce. It's is an essential nutrient that helps the body create DNA, nourishes the brain and nervous system, and assists with the formation of healthy red blood cells.

How much vitamin B12 should I take?

For most adults, the recommended daily intake (RDI) is 2.4 mcg, though it's higher for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Vitamin B12 may benefit your body in impressive ways, such as by boosting your energy, improving your memory, and helping prevent heart disease.

What is macular degeneration?

Macular degeneration is an eye disease that mainly affects your central vision.

What are the benefits of vitamin B12 supplements?

Maintaining adequate levels of vitamin B12 decreases homocysteine levels in your blood. It may also support your bone health. One study in more than 2,500 adults showed that people with a vitamin B12 deficiency also had lower than normal bone mineral density. Bones with decreased mineral density can become delicate and fragile over time, leading to an increased risk of osteoporosis.

What are the risks of vitamin B12 deficiency?

Vitamin B12 deficiency in the beginning stages of pregnancy may increase the risk of birth defects, such as neural tube defects.

Can vitamin B12 improve your mood?

Vitamin B12 may improve your mood.

What is the recommended daily intake of vitamin B12?

The recommended daily intake of vitamin B-12 for adults is 2.4 micrograms.

What are the risks associated with vitamin B12 supplements?

There is no known risk of harm associated with vitamin B12.