Vitamin B12 - A Deficiency Often Overlooked

Vitamin B12 is an important and sometimes overlooked vitamin.

It helps maintain healthy nerve and red blood cells and is required for proper absorption of foods, the metabolism of carbohydrates, protein and fats, fertility, and the growth, development and protection of the nerves.

Symptoms of B12 deficiency can include paleness, tiring easily, shortness of breath, diarrhea, numbness and tingling of the arms or legs, depression or mental confusion. In the elderly a vitamin B12 deficiency can mimic Alzheimer’s disease.

As we age, our ability to absorb B12 from food declines, and often so does our consumption of foods rich in this vitamin. It is estimated that between 20-30% of adults over the age of 50 may be low in vitamin B12 with a deficiency becoming more common as people get older.

The use of oral contraceptives has historically been associated with inducing nutrient deficiencies, particularly vitamin B12.

Strict vegetarians and all vegans, as well as infants they breast-feed, may require vitamin B12 supplementation, as this vitamin is found predominately in animal tissues. 

Since B vitamins are water-soluble, which prevents them from being stored in the body, it is important that they be consumed daily. Unfortunately, many dietary factors can increase the body’s B vitamin requirements far beyond what can be satisfied by the diet eg. antibiotic use, a diet high in refined foods, vegetarianism and age can dramatically increase the body’s depletion of B vitamins, thus further elevating the need for supplementation. 

Fortunately, oral B12 supplementation has been shown to promptly correct serum B12 and hemoglobin levels, and may be as effective as conventional B12 injection therapy. Considerable evidence indicates that, in large enough doses, sublingual (under-the-tongue) liquid may work as well as injections for people with absorption problems. Vitamin B12 supplementation using sublingual application has also been shown to enhance sleep patterns, allowing for a more restful and refreshing sleep.

Nature's Sunshine Liquid Methyl B12 Complete provides a powerful blend of vitamin B12, Niacin, B6, B2 and B1 in each sublingual dose.