Common names

Information

The recommended dietary allowance for adults, called RDA, for vitamin B12 is 2 micrograms (mcg) per day. For pregnant women, the RDA is 2.2 mcg; for nursing women, it is 2.6 mcg. A microgram is a very small amount. Since the only dietary sources of B12 are animal products, strict vegetarians may need to take supplements. They may also eat foods that have had the vitamin added.

Not getting enough vitamin B12 can cause:
- anemia
- fatigue
- nerve damage, with symptoms such as tingling sensations and numbness
- smooth tongue
- very sensitive skin
- muscle and nerve paralysis

Some people have trouble absorbing B12. Other people may just have poor dietary intake. Anemia can be treated with injections of B12. Strict vegetarians who eat no animal products, their infants, and older people are at the highest risk for vitamin B12 deficiency. For these people, eating fortified foods and/or taking dietary supplements can help prevent a deficiency. High intakes of folic acid can hide this type of anemia.

Getting too much vitamin B12 has no known symptoms or toxicity. Since it is water-soluble, any extra leaves the body in the urine. There is no proof that taking extra B12 boosts energy. Vitamins do not provide calories or create energy. Vitamins can help break down nutrients that yield energy. These nutrients include carbohydrate, protein, and fat.

Best Food sources

    * Meat, poultry, fish, eggs, milk and milk products
    * Found in vitamin B12 fortified foods, such as breakfast cereals