B-12 is one of eight B vitamins, each of which plays a distinctive role in the body's health systems. While you can take B-12 as a dietary supplement, certain health conditions may warrant faster-acting B-12 injections. B-12 may not directly prevent heart attacks, but it is related to heart health. A B-12 injection must be administered by your doctor.
Vitamin B-12
Vitamin B-12, also known as cobalamin, is necessary for both nerve and blood cell health as well as DNA production in the cells. According to the National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements, the average adult needs 2.4 mcg of B-12 every day, either from the diet or a supplement. B-12 is found in meats and animal byproducts, such as eggs and dairy, although many fortified foods also contain the vitamin. Getting enough B-12 in your diet, however, is not always sufficient. Some people are not able to absorb enough B-12 from food sources alone. This may be due to a medical condition, age or a side effect of some medications. B-12 deficiencies may cause anemia and other related health conditions, such as heart disease.
B-12 and the Heart
Vitamin B-12 is one of a handful of vitamins that influence heart function. Along with B-6 and B-9, B-12 works to control the levels of homocysteine in the blood. Homocysteine is an amino acid that is associated with heart disease. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, however, whether the substance causes heart disease or is simply an indicator of heart disease is not certain. Pernicious anemia is another condition related to both vitamin B-12 and the heart. People with pernicious anemia do not have enough red blood cells, as B-12 plays a role in their production. Left untreated, pernicious anemia reduces the amount of oxygen your organs get, including your brain and your heart. People with pernicious anemia are more prone to heart disease, according to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, and over time may develop permanent heart damage.
Effectiveness of B-12
B-12 supplements are effective for those with a true B12 deficiency, and increasing B-12 levels may prevent associated deficiency complications. However, there is little evidence that B-12 directly prevents heart disease or heart attacks in the average population. The National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements states that B-12 does not affect heart disease risks. UMMC, however, states that while this is true for the average person, those with a high risk of heart disease or those who already have the condition may benefit from B complex supplements, including B-12.
B-12 Injections Vs. Supplements
B-12 is available in many forms, and MayoClinic.com reports that most adults can safely take oral doses of up to 100 mcg per day. More serious conditions, however, may require B-12 injections. B-12 injections are given intramuscularly, like most shots, and must be administered by a licensed health-care provider. They enter the bloodstream faster and may be your best option if you have difficulty absorbing other supplements. B-12 injections are not generally prescribed solely as a heart disease treatment. If your doctor prescribes B-12 injections, however, he will give them as often as necessary and monitor your condition. If you prefer to take B-12 on your own, talk to your doctor about any potential risks or side effects.
