Does B12 give you energy?

What is vitamin B12?

Vitamin B12, also called cobalamin, is one of eight B vitamins that are essential nutrients for the body. It plays crucial roles in red blood cell formation, cell metabolism, nerve function and DNA synthesis. It is also a key factor in the function and development of the brain and nerves.

The body requires B12 to function properly but cannot produce it on its own, which is why maintaining a balanced diet is important. After stomach acids release B12 from food, a protein made in the stomach, called intrinsic factor, delivers it to the digestive tract where it is absorbed. The recommended daily intake is 2.4 mcg for most adults. Since B12 is water-soluble and any unused B12 in the body is excreted through urine, consuming more than the daily amount or taking vitamin supplements of up to 1000 mcg a day is considered safe. However, it is recommended to talk to your healthcare provider before starting any high-dose supplements.

Where can you get vitamin B12?

Vitamin B12 can be found naturally in animal-based foods or in dietary supplements. Food sources high in vitamin B12 include:
 

• Red meat 
• Fish
• Poultry
• Eggs
• Dairy products (milk, yogurt)
• Some nutrient-enriched cereals or yeasts
   

If your diet alone does not provide sufficient B12, dietary supplements can be a helpful option. B12 deficiency can also be the result of problems with absorption in the digestive tract, which may require treatment via injection. Talking with your healthcare provider can help you determine if B12 supplementation is right for you and, if needed, which form of supplementation is best for you.

Can vitamin B12 boost energy?

Despite what some sources may say, there's no scientific evidence that taking B12 supplements will increase energy, concentration, memory or mood in people who already have normal B12 levels. While B12 plays important roles in cell metabolism, it has not been shown to directly enhance energy in people without a deficiency. However, if you are deficient in B12, then supplementation may help improve symptoms like weakness and fatigue.

Why should you test your B12 levels?

If you struggle with nonspecific symptoms and believe your vitamin intake may be a contributing factor, testing your B12 levels can provide insight into your nutritional health. Vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to symptoms such as:

• Fatigue        
• Muscle weakness
• Numbness or tingling
• Difficulty walking
• Depression
• Memory loss
   

Those who are at higher risk of having a B12 deficiency should also consider being tested. High-risk groups include people who:
 

• Are older than 75
• Follow a strict vegan or vegetarian diet
• Have a digestive system disorder
• Take medications like metformin, proton pump inhibitors, histamine H2 blockers or oral birth control pills
  
  

Test your B12 levels with Labcorp OnDemand

While vitamin B12 supplementation may not provide you with an energy boost, maintaining healthy levels of B12 is important for your overall health.

If you are concerned you may be vitamin B12 deficient, Labcorp OnDemand offers a Vitamin B12 Test that can give you the insights you need. Talking with your healthcare provider can help you find out if testing and treatment for B12 deficiency could help resolve any unexplained fatigue or weakness you may be experiencing.