Vitamin B12 (methylcobalamin)

Gold· human data

Also known as: Cobalamin, Methylcobalamin, Adenosylcobalamin

Essential for nerves and red cells, and a genuine staple for vegans and older adults.

Vitamin B12 is essential for healthy nerves and red blood cells and comes almost entirely from animal foods. Deficiency causes fatigue, anaemia and, if prolonged, nerve damage — and correcting it is clearly worthwhile.

This is one supplement with a strong case for specific groups: vegans and vegetarians, older adults, and people with absorption problems, who should supplement routinely. For people already replete from diet, extra B12 offers no added boost. It is water-soluble and very safe.

Sources

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Written and reviewed by Mathew Beale, MSc Biotechnology, University of Reading.

Last reviewed: