Have you ever wondered how is a cow is like a clam? It does not sound like there is any simple relationship but as it turns out – both have “c” as their first letter and they both contain an important vitamin for our vitality —Vitamin B12!
A nutrient that the body needs in small amounts to function and stay healthy. Sources of vitamins are plant and animal food products and dietary supplements. Because the human body cannot synthesize vitamin B-12 there are only two ways that you can obtain vitamin B-12: by eating foods rich in the vitamin, or by taking dietary supplements.
Prized for its ability to boost one’s energy and improve one’s mood – when taken at appropriate doses, vitamin B-12 supplements are generally considered safe. While the recommended daily amount of vitamin B-12 for adults is 2.4 micrograms, higher doses have been found to be safe. The body absorbs only as much as it needs, and any excess passes through your urine.
Vitamin B12 is a nutrient that helps keep your body’s blood and nerve cells healthy and helps make DNA, the genetic material in all of our cells. Vitamin B12 is responsible for making red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. It may also enhance the activity of certain immune cells, which may ward off viruses.
Vitamin B12 is a water-soluble B vitamin found in some foods. Most are animal sources : milk, egg yolks, yogurt, salmon, tuna and beef. B12 is also added to certain foods, like cereals.
This is why vegetarians and vegans have a higher risk of being deficient. As well as the elderly or those who take oral contraceptives or medications for gastric disorders or insulin resistance.
About 6% of Americans under the age of 60—and 20% of those over 60—have a B12 deficiency. And while eating B12-rich foods and taking oral supplements can boost your levels, vitamin B12 injections are now an increasingly popular way to supplement. Especially for people who don’t absorb B12 well, or those whose want to make sure beyond reasonable doubt that they’re getting an ample dose quickly, Vitamin B12 injections are gaining in popularity and are readily available.
B12 Shots
B12 injections are especially useful for people with a B12 deficiency, which tends to stem from difficulties absorbing the nutrient, not falling short nutritionally. People with stomach and intestinal conditions such as celiac disease and Crohn’s disease may struggle to absorb enough B12 from their food.
Aging can also set you up for a B12 shortage since absorption declines as you get older.
If you’re experiencing symptoms of B12 deficiency, your doctor may order a blood test. If your blood levels are lower than 200 pg/mL or if you are diagnosed with pernicious anemia, your doctor may recommend B12 supplementation via injection.
Signs that you’re not getting enough B12:
- Fatigue
- Weakness
- Confusion
- Memory issues
- Headaches
- Depression
- Pale skin
- Pain and swelling in the mouth or tongue
- Erectile dysfunction
B12 Shots Benefits
When you swallow a B12 supplement, it’s hard to know how much of the nutrient you actually absorb.
B12 injections, also known as cyanocobalamin, or hydroxocobalamin, tend to be a more reliable delivery vehicle for those who require a precise dose. B12 injections can be more effective than pills in patients who have trouble absorbing vitamin B12. The injections are also required less frequently than oral supplements. One would typically need a shot once a week or every few weeks. If you take oral B12 supplements, some of what one swallows is lost during digestion. B12 shots bypass the gut and the full dose goes directly into your bloodstream so it is readily absorbed.
B12 injections might not be ideal if you:
- have had an allergic reaction to hydroxocobalamin or any other meds in the past
- have low levels of potassium
- have an irregular or rapid heartbeat
Side Effects from Vitamin B12 Shots
There’s no established toxic dose for B12 as it is a water-soluble vitamin. Anything to an excess is flushed out of the body.
Common side effects of B12 injections include:
- Diarrhea
- Headache
- Swelling (and not only at the site of the injection)
- Mild to moderate pain to injection site
If you experience any uncommon side effects, such as chest pain or hives, contact your health care provider immediately.
The Bottom Line
Vitamin B12 injections can help if your gut doesn’t absorb nutrients well or you don’t want to take a daily oral supplement. B12 can be injected just under the skin or into the muscle. Vitamin B12 injections are generally safe and side effects are mild. It is important to discuss any supplement use with your physician. Talk to your doctor about whether your diet provides enough B12, or if taking a supplement would help.
