Vitamin B12 is one of the essential B vitamins, which help maintain the body's overall health. The B vitamins -- thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, pantothenic acid, B6, biotin, folic acid and B12 -- all help with the conversion of energy from the food you eat. Natural sources of these vitamins include fish, meat, eggs and dairy products. The best source for vitamin B12 is beef liver, clams and fortified cereals. Most multivitamin dietary supplements contain vitamin B12.
About Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12 or cyanocobalamin is a water-soluble B vitamin that helps keep the nerves and blood cells healthy. Vitamin B12 also contributes to the formation of DNA, the genetic material found in every cell of the body. Absorption of vitamin B12 happens in the stomach; it initially passes through gastric acid and then attaches itself to a protein called intrinsic factor and then gets distributed to the entire body. The recommended daily dose of cyanocobalamin in adults is 2.4 micrograms.
Advantages of Sublingual Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12 is prepared in sublingual form, meaning it is placed and dissolved under the tongue. Sublingual preparations are absorbed faster in the bloodstream compared to oral tablets. When taking sublingual vitamin B12, the potency of the nutrient is maintained, and becomes readily available. With the sublingual route, vitamin B12 no longer passes the digestive tract and because of that all the nutrients stay intact.
Advantages of Vitamin B12 Patch
Transdermal vitamin B12 or patch is a preparation wherein the vitamin enters the bloodstream through the skin. One of the most notable benefits of transdermal preparation is comfort and convenience. The skin has different layers and cells. Not all substance can pass through these layers, most especially if they are water-soluble and have large molecules. Vitamin B12 is soluble in water and has large molecules, making it less ideal when introduced intradermally.
Disadvantages of Vitamin B12
Taking vitamin B12 has not been known to cause any harm, but it has a few drug interactions. Vitamin B12 can interact with other medications, such as antibiotics, antacids and anti-diabetic drugs. These drugs can interfere with the vitamin's absorption, altering its therapeutic effect. Since vitamin B12 is higher in animal sources compared to plant sources, strict vegans may require vitamin B12 supplements to prevent deficiencies.
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