Your red blood cells, brain and nervous system all depend on adequate supplies of vitamin B-12 to function properly. Even the genetic code that determines the fate of each of your cells is dependant on B-12, which plays an active role in the synthesis of DNA. If you're not absorbing enough B-12 to meet your body's needs, a number of negative consequences can ensue. B-12 supplementation can be taken in pill form or administered as an injection by a licensed medical professional.
Dietary B-12
For most people in the United States, getting enough B-12 is not a problem. B-12 is prevalent in foods common to the Western diet, such as dairy products, eggs, fish, poultry and meat. B-12 deficiency due to dietary shortfall is rare in this country, but some who maintain restrictive diets may suffer from a lack of sufficient B-12. Vegans who abstain from all meat and dairy products need to find other sources of B-12, such as some nutritional yeasts, fortified cereal or soy milk and supplements.
B-12 Deficiency
Besides voluntary dietary choices, certain medical conditions can affect your body's ability to use B-12. Pernicious anemia affects your ability to absorb B-12 due to a lack of an intrinsic factor, an enzyme necessary for dietary B-12 metabolism. Gastrointestinal disorders, such as Crohn's disease also can interfere with B-12 absorption. Advanced age can affect your ability to absorb B-12, due to atrophy of the stomach tissues that secrete hydrochloric acid. A history of gastric surgery also can impede B-12 absorption.
B-12 Shots
B-12 is sometimes administered as an injection into your muscle, or just under your skin. According to MedlinePlus, it is typically administered daily for two weeks, after which the injections are given every three to four days. Once your condition is resolved, you may have to receive monthly injections. If you have pernicious anemia, you may need to receive B-12 supplementation for the rest of your life under proper medical supervision.
B-12 Pills
B-12 also is available in tablet form and can be purchased over the counter. Mayo Clinic states that adults and teens in the United States are advised to take 2 mcg per day of oral B-12. Pregnant women are advised to take 2.2 mcg daily and lactating women should take 2.6 mcg daily.
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