B12

More information about B12

Vitamin B12 is an essential vitamin for central nervous system function, red blood cell formation and DNA production. It’s important to consume enough vitamin B12 to keep the body working properly. Vitamin B12 is naturally found in animal-based foods. It can also be added to certain foods and is available in supplement form. There are vitamin B12 tablets, softgels, gummies and liquids in a variety of doses and formulations available for purchase in store and online at Walgreens.

What are B12 vitamins?

Vitamin B12 is part of the B-complex of vitamins. It plays a key role in protein metabolism and nervous system function. It’s found naturally in animal foods, such as meat, eggs, fish, poultry and dairy. It’s added to some other foods like fortified cereals and nutritional yeasts. B12 is also available in supplement form, either as part of a multivitamin or B-complex vitamin, or as a single supplement that contains only B12.

Most adults need at least 2.4 micrograms (mcg) per day, but it is generally safe to consume more. Most multivitamins that contain B12 have 5 to 25 mcg per dose, while supplements that contain only B12 usually have higher doses in the 500 to 3,000 mcg range. With so many vitamin B12 options available as supplements, ask a Walgreens pharmacist for help choosing the best option for you.

Why is vitamin B12 important?

Vitamin B12 is important for human health because it keep cells and nerves working properly and helps produce DNA. Vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to issues such as muscle weakness, fatigue, anemia, nerve damage and mood disorders. While vitamin B12 deficiency is rare and most people get enough B12 from their diets, some people may be at greater risk of low B12 levels, including vegetarians and vegans, older adults and people with digestive system conditions, such as Crohn's disease and celiac disease. Some people may benefit from a vitamin B12 supplement to help ensure the body has what it needs. Speak with your healthcare provider if you are concerned about your vitamin B12 levels and to find out if supplements are the right choice for you.

Who needs B12 vitamins?

While vitamin B12 supplements can be helpful for some people, not everyone needs additional vitamin B12 outside of the foods they eat. Most people who follow a healthy diet and consume animal products get enough B12, but some people who follow a vegetarian or vegan diet may not get enough B12 from the foods they eat and might benefit from a vitamin B12 supplement. Other people who may have a higher risk of B12 deficiency include older adults and people with some digestive system conditions.

Supplements can be a good choice for people who need additional B12 to meet their nutritional goals, and over-the-counter (OTC) vitamin B12 supplements can help. Visit a Walgreens store or check out Walgreens online to find a supplement that meets your needs. If you’re having trouble choosing from the variety of options, a Walgreens pharmacist can help you in store or online 24/7 with Walgreens Pharmacy Chat.