No. 080Vitamin
Vitamin
Vitamin B12
Needed for healthy nerves, red blood cells and DNA.
- Also known as
- Cyanocobalamin, Cobalamin
- Evidence
- Established nutrient Evidence level 5 of 5
- Body systems
- Liver, Nerves, Bones, Vitality and immunity
In research
B12 deficiency is common among vegetarians and older adults and can affect nerves and blood.
Strength of evidence
Established nutrient Evidence level 5 of 5An essential nutrient with well defined roles and recommended intakes. How we grade evidence.
What we know
- Essential for nerves, blood and DNA. Deficiency is common in vegetarians, older adults and people on long-term metformin.
What we do not know yet
- Whether supplementing people with normal levels offers any benefit.
Safety and cautions
Very safe at usual doses. Deficiency should be properly diagnosed so that the cause is not missed.
Evidence
Research and answers
Appraised research and plain-language answers that involve Vitamin B12.
Where you will find it
Products that contain it
Ingredient pages summarise traditional use and the direction of published research for education. They are not claims about any product and are not medical advice.
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