Q: What is the B12 vitamin?
Vitamin B12 is a water-soluble vitamin which is important for many processes in the human body. It is required for a healthy nervous system, blood cell formation, and DNA creation. Only animal foods and dairy products contain vitamin B12.
Q: When to take vitamin B12?
People who only eat plant-based food and older adults should supplement with vitamin B12. People with certain medical conditions concerning the gastro-intestinal system which may lead to a vitamin B12 deficiency, may also be at risk of vitamin B12 deficiency. Supplementation can be performed with oral tablets or a vitamin B12 injection.
Q: What side effects can vitamin B12 cause?
There is no evidence that vitamin B12 produces side effects. A vitamin B12 overdose is unlikely, as any excess of the water-soluble vitamin can be excreted in the urine.
Q: How much vitamin B12 should I take? The recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for B12 is 2.4 mcg for adults. The vitamin B12 dosage for seniors is also 2.4 mcg per day.
Q: When do I need to seek medical help?
If you belong to a risk group of vitamin B12 deficiency, or feel any associated deficiency symptoms, you should seek medical help.