The Power of Vitamin B12

Vitamin B12 is a nutrient you have likely seen trending on your social media feed - and for good reason. It often comes up in conversations with patients, especially as part of our integrative approach to optimizing health and energy.

Why vitamin B12 is so important

Vitamin B12 is a water-soluble vitamin that is essential for several key processes in the body including:

  • Red blood cell formation

  • Neurological health and nerve function

  • Forming genetic material

  • Energy production

  • Mood regulation and mental clarity 

  • And more!

Despite its importance, our bodies can’t produce vitamin B12 on its own. Instead, we rely on our diet to supply it.

Where do we get vitamin B12 from?

Vitamin B12 is naturally found in animal products such as

  • Meat (especially red meat)

  • Eggs and dairy products

  • Fish 

It’s also added to certain fortified foods (certain foods that have vitamins and nutrients added to them) like breakfast cereals, plant-based milks, and some meat substitutes. You can check your food labels to see if they are enriched with B12!

What causes vitamin B12 deficiency?

Vitamin B12 deficiency can occur when you're not getting enough from your diet, or when your body has trouble absorbing it. Absorption issues are more common in those with digestive conditions, older adults, or individuals on certain medications. 

Since Vitamin B12 so important for the proper functioning of our body, a deficiency can lead to a wide range of symptoms, such as:

  • Fatigue or weakness

  • Nausea or loss of appetite

  • Weight loss

  • Pale or yellow-tinged skin

  • Numbness or tingling in the hands and feet

  • Vision changes 

  • Memory difficulties

Keep in mind that symptoms may not always be obvious, or they may overlap with other nutritional deficiencies. Typically, vitamin B12 deficiency is diagnosed through routine bloodwork. It is important to reach out to your healthcare practitioner if you suspect you have Vitamin B12 deficiency or you are experiencing any of the above symptoms. 

How to improve B12 levels

To increase your vitamin B12 intake, consider consuming food or drink with natural vitamin B12 such as red meats, poultry, fish, and dairy products as well as fortified foods that contain added Vitamin B12 (check the labels).

Additionally, you can consider taking Vitamin B12 supplements if advised by your healthcare practitioner. If Vitamin B12 absorption is a concern, B12 injections may be recommended. B12 shots deliver the vitamin directly into the bloodstream for fast and effective absorption, making them a great option for those with digestive concerns or severe deficiencies.

At Crafted Balance Naturopathic Clinic, we offer:

  • Bloodwork testing to identify deficiencies

  • Personalized supplement and dietary recommendations

  • B12 injections, when appropriate, for optimal absorption

  • Integrative care such as acupuncture, massage therapy, and lifestyle counseling to support overall wellness and energy

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