Vitamin B12 is essential because it promotes healthy nerve cells and red blood cells and is necessary in the production of DNA. MayoClinic.com states that your body can store vitamin B12 for years, making B12 deficiencies rare. However, since vitamin B12 is only found in animal sources, vegans and vegetarians are sometimes deficient in B12. The elderly are also more likely to suffer from B12 deficiencies. People who have a difficult time absorbing vitamin B12 may suffer from a condition called pernicious anemia.
Step 1
Eat foods that are high in vitamin B12. Look for healthy meats, such as fish and chicken, to get your body the vitamin B12 it needs.
Step 2
Choose eggs and dairy items, such as yogurt or milk, to add vitamin B12 to your diet if you prefer not to eat meat.
Step 3
Consume 2.4mcg of Vitamin B12 per day, according to MedlinePlus. Get your recommended daily allowance by consuming one chicken breast and one hard boiled egg, or 1 cup of plain low-fat yogurt.
Step 4
Talk to your doctor about vitamin B12 supplements if you can't get the B12 you need through your diet. Choose from vitamin B12 pills, lozenges, injections or nasal sprays.
Step 5
Verify that other medications you are taking do not interfere with vitamin B12 absorption. The University of Maryland Medical Center claims that some medications used to control diabetes and cholesterol, as well as chemotherapy medications, antibiotics and anticonvulsants, can reduce your ability to absorb vitamin B12.
Tips and Warnings
- The symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency include diarrhea, fatigue, loss of appetite and paleness. If you think you have a vitamin B12 deficiency, visit a doctor for testing.
- Avoid taking vitamin B12 supplements if you are allergic to cobalt or cobalamin. Do not take vitamin B12 supplements if you are undergoing angioplasty or receiving a coronary stent.
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