Do Vitamin B12 & B6 Help With Weight Loss?

University of Maryland notes, the rise of obesity to epidemic levels in the US means that more people are suffering from health complications. More than 300,000 deaths can be attributed to obesity-related issues each year.

Many people lack the self-discipline or drive to lose weight via exercise and healthy eating and so they go in search of magic bullet solutions for their weight problems. B-6 and B-12 vitamin supplementation are often promoted as one such method for quick weight loss. Consult your family doctor before taking vitamin supplements.

Function

University of Maryland notes, like the other six B vitamins, B-6 and B-12 must be replenished frequently via diet as they cannot be produced or stored in the body. B vitamins metabolize fats and protein stores, and convert foods into energy or fuel.

B-6 specializes in cognitive function. It helps to make norepinephrine and serotonin hormones, which regulate mood. B-12 helps with the creation, regulation and organizing of nerve and blood cells.

Intake

Fish, meat, dairy and eggs, and to a lesser degree, fruits, vegetables and wheat contain B-6 and B-12. A B-12 deficiency is uncommon, notes MayoClinic.com; however, B-6 deficiencies occur more commonly in children, pregnant women, alcoholics and the elderly, notes Office of Dietary Supplements. B-6 and B-12 are available as oral supplements from health-food stores, while B-12 is also available as injections induced by medical professionals.

Theory

Weight loss centers make a connections between vitamin B-12 and weight loss, theorizing that since B-12 increases energy levels and quickens metabolism, it also must burn more calories. MayoClinic.com dismisses these claims, noting that there is no hard evidence that B-12 causes weight loss. University of Maryland details B-6 uses and possible benefits, but makes no claims that B-6 is an effective weight loss treatment.

Considerations

Boosting metabolism and raising energy levels can benefit people with vitamin B-12 deficiency, notes MayoClinic. According to University of Maryland, people who stand to benefit the most include individuals with eating disorders, vegetarians and vegans.

B-12 and B-6 pills can be taken daily with food. MayoClinic notes that B-12 supplementation can interfere with other medications and B-6 can cause mild side effects if taken in excess.

Alternatives

MayoClinic.com advocates physical activity and healthy diet as the only real credible method for general weight loss. Alternative strategies such as weight loss pills, injections and surgeries are often left in reserve by doctors for patients who are suffering weigh gain and obesity due to illness.