Your Guide to B12 Supplements: Everything You Need to Know About Them

B12 is a necessary and vital nutrient that we need in our bodies. And sometimes we need extra B12 added to our diet.

By Anna Nordseth; Reviewed by Dr. Harshi Dhingra
Jul 29, 2023 3:00 PMDec 28, 2023 4:12 PM
B12 supplement
(Credit: Garna Zarina/Shutterstock)

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Vitamin B12 is an essential nutrient that plays an indispensable role in keeping the body healthy.

Most people get enough B12 from animal-based foods in their diets without issue. Certain lifestyle factors or medical conditions, however, can cause vitamin B12 deficiency, resulting in serious health problems.

For many B12-deficient individuals, adding extra B12 to the diet with supplements or fortified foods can easily correct the problem. But how much do you actually need and how does it impact your body?

The Role of B12 in the Body

Our bodies naturally store B12, although just how much varies from person to person.

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