Vitamin B12 is a water-soluble vitamin that is important for red blood cells, nerve cells, neurological function and is needed to make DNA, according to the Mayo Clinic. It is found in fish, meat and dairy products, comes in various forms and is used to treat vitamin B12 deficiencies and other conditions related to malabsorption. Sublingual B12 is taken under the tongue in quick-dissolve tablets or in liquid form.
Quick Release
By using sublingual B12 under the tongue, there is a quick release into the blood system. The vitamin enters the blood stream and can be utilized by the body almost immediately. Sublingual B12 does not increase the amount of vitamin absorbed by the body. Only 10 mcg of a 500-mcg dose is absorbed by a healthy body no matter whether it is in sublingual or capsule form, according to the National Institutes of Health Dietary Fact Sheet on vitamin B12.
Convenience
A study published in the Feb. 21, 2005 BioMed Central Family Practice, concluded that sublingual B12 was as effective as B12 injections and was more convenient to administer. Patients prefer the under-the-tongue dosing to B12 shots as it is less painful and makes them more at ease. It also allows patients to have control over their therapy.
Quick Energy
Sublingual B12 can provide quick energy for those with a vitamin B12 deficiency. This has to do with its role in energy metabolism in the body. B12 deficiency causes megaloblastic anemia, according to the National Institutes of Health, which has symptoms of fatigue and weakness. The claims that vitamin B12 will enhance athletic performance and overall energy only have validity in deficient individuals. Healthy people show no effects from sublingual vitamin B12 supplementation.
Dementia Treatment
A study published in the May 6, 2010 "Neuropsychiatric Disease and Treatment" journal noted that B12 deficiency is a risk factor for dementia. Dementia patients using B12 serum showed significant improvement. The elderly are at a greater risk for B12 deficiency because of the higher number of older people--10 to 30 percent--who have atrophic gastritis. This condition causes the decreased absorption of vitamin B12, according to the National Institutes of Health.
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