Vitamin B12 is an essential vitamin that you receive by eating foods such as fish, meat and dairy products. Vegetarians and vegans sometimes require additional supplementation of vitamin B12. The elderly may also be unable to store vitamin B12 and require supplements as well. Low levels of vitamin B12 can lead to several types of anemia. According to the MedlinePlus website, people who suffer from breast cancer and Alzheimer's disease tend to have low levels of vitamin B12.
Step 1
Discuss your needs with your doctor. Talk to your general practitioner about your desire to take vitamin B12 supplements. Your doctor can perform a blood test to determine if your B12 levels are low. Ask your doctor for advice on how much B12 supplementation you need and whether it's best for you to take vitamin supplements or increase B12 in your diet.
Step 2
Visit a drugstore or natural food store and ask for assistance. Ask a store employee to help suggest the best supplement for you, following your doctor's guidelines.
Step 3
Choose a supplement that meets the recommended daily allowance of vitamin B12. The Food and Nutrition Board at the Institute of Medicine suggests that all adults consume 2.4 mcg of vitamin B12 per day.
Tips and Warnings
- MayoClinic.com states that it is safe for women who are pregnant and breast-feeding to get 2.6 and 2.8 mcg of vitamin B12 daily, respectively. Side effects from taking too much vitamin B12 include rashes and diarrhea. Stop taking your supplements and contact your doctor if you experience any of these side effects while taking supplemental B12. Ingesting large amounts of alcohol can limit your absorption of vitamin B12. Likewise, taking folic acid, vitamin C and potassium supplements along with vitamin B12 supplements can decrease the efficacy of the B12.
- Do not take vitamin B12 supplements if you are allergic to cobalamin or cobalt. Avoid B12 supplements if you are undergoing angioplasty treatment or coronary stents.
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