Taking Vitamin B12 as a Vegan

This is what you need to know

While a plant-based diet is undeniably the healthiest diet in the world, a vegan lifestyle can lead to a vitamin B12 deficiency. Vegans don't get B12 from animal products, and our bodies can't produce this essential vitamin on their own. The Nutrition Center therefore recommends vegans take a vitamin B12 supplement or eat products fortified with vitamin B12.

Active ingredients in our B12 supplements

• Methylcobalamin
  A natural form of vitamin B12 that our bodies can absorb easily and quickly. Methylcobalamin is essential for DNA methylation, a process that occurs at the cellular level.
• Adenosylcobalamin
  A naturally occurring form of vitamin B12 that our bodies can absorb efficiently. It contributes to the formation of ATP, or energy.

What does B12 do for your body?

Vitamin B12 contributes to the proper functioning of various bodily processes. For example, it is essential for the proper functioning of your immune system, nervous system, and intestinal system, as well as the production of red blood cells. Because B12 influences so many processes, the symptoms of a B12 deficiency vary. For example, some people simply experience fatigue, while others also experience memory loss or tinnitus due to low B12 levels. Our B12 supplements can help maintain healthy B12 levels in your body.

Vegan? Watch your B12!

A vegan lifestyle that includes plenty of fresh vegetables, fruits, seeds, and nuts contributes to a healthy mind and body. However, as a vegan, there's a good chance you're not getting enough B12.

What is cyanocobalamin?

The official name for vitamin B12 is cyanocobalamin, which refers to the mineral cobalt. Some B12 supplements contain only cyanocobalamin, but your body must convert this form of B12 into the biologically active forms methylcobalamin and adenosylcobalamin.

Intrinsic factor

Some people have difficulty converting cyanocobalamin into the active forms of B12: methylcobalamin and adenosylcobalamin. This results in a deficiency of Intrinsic Factor. This is a substance found in stomach acid that your body needs for this process. Elderly people and those with reduced stomach acid often have insufficient Intrinsic Factor.

Questions? We're here for you.

Methylcobalamin...Adenosylcobalamin, feeling a bit dizzy? Do you have a question about our vitamin B12 supplements or want to know if taking vitamin B12 is right for you? Contact one of our specialists. We're happy to share our knowledge with you!