how old do you have to be to take b12

When will I feel better with B12?

The amount of time it takes you to feel better after beginning treatment for a vitamin B12 deficiency depends on the severity of your deficiency and how well your body absorbs the vitamin. In many cases, treatment can last weeks to months, but it's likely that you may experience some relief of symptoms even before your treatment is complete.

How often do you take your B12?

Vitamin B12 injections are used to treat a range of ailments, and each user requires a unique dosage and frequency to ensure effectiveness. Doctors suggest various frequencies depending on the reason you are using B12. Some doctors recommend that anyone can use B12 injections, with a frequency of up to one shot weekly for 4 weeks.

What is the recommended dosage of B12 per day?

While the recommended daily amount of vitamin B-12 for adults is 2.4 micrograms, higher doses have been found to be safe. Your body absorbs only as much as it needs, and any excess passes through your urine.

What can I eat to raise my B12?

The Best Method to Increase Vitamin B12 Levels

• Test for Deficiency. Vegetarians may be at risk for vitamin B12 deficiency, despite the fortification of many common foods.
• Eat Animal Products. Animal products, including meat, poultry, seafood and dairy foods, are the main source of cobalamin in the diet.
• Use Dairy Substitutes. ...
• Take Dietary Supplements. ...
• Eat Fortified Foods. ...

Can my 12 year old take vitamin B12?

1-3 years: 0.9 mcg. 4-8 years: 1.2 mcg. 9-13 years: 1.8 mcg. 14-18 years: 2.4 mcg.

How much B12 should a 16 year old take?

Adults under age 50. For people over 14, the RDI for vitamin B12 is 2.4 mcg ( 1 ). Most people meet this requirement through diet.

Can I give my 14 year old B12?

The amount of vitamin B12 you need each day, or recommended daily allowance (RDA), depends on your age. If you are 9 to 13 years old, you need 1.8 micrograms each day. If you are 14 years old or older, you need 2.4 micrograms each day.

Is B12 OK for teens?

Teens should get 2.4 micrograms of vitamin B12 daily. Vitamin B6 is important for normal brain and nerve function. It also helps the body break down proteins and make red blood cells.

Can too much B12 make your hair fall out?

A minimum daily dose of each vitamin is necessary to maintain good health. Significantly exceeding this dose, however, can cause illness. In general, the symptoms of vitamin toxicity include nausea, gastrointestinal problems like constipation and diarrhea, hair loss, rashes, and nerve damage.

Do kids need B12 vitamins?

Vitamin B12 is important for central nervous system function, forming red blood cells and turning the food that you eat into energy. We also need vitamin B12 to form DNA(1) and RNA so that we can make new cells and grow, and for the normal function of the immune system(2).

Are B12 shots good for kids?

In a small but carefully controlled study, regular injections of methyl B12 produced an overall improvement in autism symptoms in some children who have the disorder.

Why would a child need a B12 shot?

In the event of (serious) symptoms immediate treatment with vitamin B12 injections is necessary to prevent permanent damage. Children with metabolic disorders and lack of B12 binding proteins often require high doses of vitamin B12, as well as additional forms of treatment.

How long does it take for a vitamin B12 deficiency to appear?

Because the body stores about 1 to 5 mg vitamin B12 (or about 1,000 to 2,000 times as much as the amount typically consumed in a day), the symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency can take several years to appear [ 7, 33 ].

What is B12 parenteral?

Parenteral administration is typically used to treat vitamin B12 deficiency caused by pernicious anemia as well as other conditions (e.g., tropical sprue, pancreatic insufficiency) that result in vitamin B12 malabsorption and severe vitamin B12 deficiency [ 5 ].

What is the most common cause of vitamin B12 deficiency?

Pernicious anemia is the most common cause of clinically evident vitamin B12 deficiency around the world [ 11, 43 ]. The incidence of pernicious anemia in the United States is an estimated 151 per 100,000, and this condition is more common in women and in people of European ancestry [ 43 ].

What is the most common form of vitamin B12?

The most common form of vitamin B12 in dietary supplements is cyanocobalamin [ 1, 3, 22, 23 ]. Other forms of vitamin B12 in supplements are adenosylcobalamin, methylcobalamin, and hydroxycobalamin [ 22 ]. No evidence indicates that absorption rates of vitamin B12 in supplements vary by form of the vitamin.

How much B12 is in a multivitamin?

Multivitamin/mineral supplements typically contain vitamin B12 at doses ranging from 5 to 25 mcg [ 22 ]. Vitamin B12 levels are higher, generally 50–500 mcg, in supplements containing vitamin B12 with other B-complex vitamins and even higher, typically 500–1,000 mcg, in supplements containing only vitamin B12.

What is B12 used for?

Vitamin B12 functions as a cofactor for two enzymes, methionine synthase and L-methylmalonyl-CoA mutase [ 1-3, 5 ] . Methionine synthase catalyzes the conversion of homocysteine to the essential amino acid methionine [ 1, 2 ].

Why is vitamin B12 not UL?

The FNB did not establish a UL for vitamin B12 because of its low potential for toxicity [ 1 ]. Even at large doses, vitamin B12 is generally considered to be safe because the body does not store excess amounts.

Why is vitamin B12 important?

Vitamin B12 is also connected with the nervous system, and can prevent brain atrophy.It also helps neurons to function properly and can aid with memory. Is important for healthy hair, skin, and nails. Healthy skin is important for a functioning immune system. Low levels of Vitamin B12 are associated with skin conditions like vitiligo ...

What is the purpose of B12?

So that you can truly understand how vital Vitamin B12 is for a wide variety of bodily functions, here’s a comprehensive list of benefits and functions of Vitamin B12 that have been backed by scientific studies: Helps to support bone health, increasing bone density, and preventing bone diseases like osteoporosis.

What is the B12 complex?

The Vitamin B complex consists of a total of eight different essential vitamins that are all water-soluble, meaning they dissolve in water and are discharged from the body via urine. The challenge relating to vitamins like B12 is that the body cannot produce them or store them for very long, ...

What vitamins are needed for growth in children?

These supplements not only contain Vitamin B12, but several other vitamins and minerals that are essential for growth and development in children. Choosing a specific multivitamin for your child can also be a challenge.

What foods have B12?

Fortunately, Vitamin B12 is added to non-animal products like bread, breakfast cereals, and milk. Here are some of the best sources of Vitamin B12: Eggs. Dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt. Fish like haddock and tuna. Chicken.

What are the other B vitamins?

Vitamin B12 might be the biggest vitamin of all, but it isn’t alone within the Vitamin B complex! The seven other B Vitamins are: Vitamin B1 or thiamine. Vitamin B2 or riboflavin. Vitamin B3 or niacin/niacinamide. Vitamin B5 or pantothenic acid. Vitamin B6 or pyridoxine. Vitamin B7 or biotin. Vitamin B9 or folic acid.

Can vitamin B12 deficiency cause irritability?

Irritability. If your child has any of these symptoms or if you have reason to believe that they may be Vitamin B12 deficient , it’s important to speak with their pediatrician right away about your concerns and potentially get a test to evaluate their levels.

How much B12 should I take for a 4-year-old?

One important thing to note is the vitamin B12 dosage for a child. The DRI for a 4-year-old is 1.2 mcg, but children's B12 supplements often contain way more than that. One brand provides 1,200 mcg. One reason for this is that the body's ability to absorb supplemental B12 is limited.

What happens if your child doesn't have enough B12?

This leads to stalled production of blood cells by the bone marrow. Fewer red blood cells mean that oxygen can't be delivered properly to tissues throughout the body.

What is the best vitamin for a child?

According to NIH, there is no difference in the bioavailability and efficacy between sublingual and oral formulations. One important thing to note is the vitamin B12 dosage for a child.

What are the risks of B12 deficiency?

Other children who are at risk of B12 deficiency include: 1 Very picky eaters who refuse to eat all but a few foods. 2 Children with malabsorption conditions, such as celiac and Crohn's diseases. 3 Those who take medications for chronic conditions. Some medications, like isoniazid or methotrexate, may make it necessary to supplement with extra nutrients, advises McCarthy.

What are the richest sources of B12?

The richest sources are meat, fish and dairy. Very few plant foods provide B12, but some are fortified with the nutrient. Advertisement. One of the main reasons children and adults may become deficient in B12 is if they eat a vegetarian or vegan diet.

How much mcg of salmon should a 9 year old eat?

9 to 13 years: 1.8 mcg. These amounts are not difficult to obtain through diet if your child is healthy and eats a wide range of foods. For example, 1.5 ounces of cooked salmon provide 2.4 mcg, and a serving of fortified breakfast cereal provides 1.5 mcg, according to the National Institutes of Health.

How many calories should a 5 year old girl eat a day?

According to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2015-2020, boys and girls between the ages of 2 and 5 need 1,000 to 1,600 per day. Between the ages of 6 and 9, boys need 1,400 to 2,000 calories, and girls of the same ages need 1,200 to 1,800 calories. Calorie needs increase with age and activity level.

Why is B12 important for seniors?

Vitamin B12 is particularly important because it plays a role in brain function, metabolism, nerve cells, and blood health. Vitamin B12 helps to metabolize an amino acid known as homocysteine.

Why are seniors at higher risk for vitamin B12 deficiency?

That’s because this disorder makes it hard for your body to produce intrinsic factor (IF), a protein that plays a key role in the absorption of vitamin B12.

Why is vitamin B12 low?

It may cause nerve damage, and studies show low vitamin B12 levels may be a risk factor for problems in cognitive function such as dementia and psychosis. Older people who don’t get enough vitamin B12 may be at higher risk for anemia and infections.

How to diagnose vitamin B12 deficiency?

How To Diagnose a Vitamin B12 Deficiency. The best way to see if you have a vitamin B12 deficiency is to visit your healthcare provider and take a blood test. On the day of your visit, your doctor will ask you about your medical history and draw blood to determine your B12 levels in blood serum.

What are the most common dietary deficiencies for seniors?

As a result, many older adults suffer from vitamin deficiencies that can cause health problems. The most common dietary deficiencies for seniors include calcium, vitamin D, magnesium, vitamin E, and B vitamins. B vitamins are particularly important ...

What is the role of vitamin B12 in the body?

Vitamin B12 helps to create and reproduce blood cells and is also involved in producing energy.

What happens to the body as we age?

As we age, our bodies produce less stomach acid and other compounds that help to absorb B vitamins. Here, we’ll show you the benefits of the vitamin for seniors and discuss what happens if you’re deficient. Plus, we’ll show you the recommended vitamin B12 dosage for seniors and give you tips to stay well in your golden years.

How to get B12 from food?

In addition to getting B-12 from food sources, it is possible to acquire B-12 through a man-made version of the nutrient, known as cyanocobalamin. Vitamin B-12 shots are injections containing high levels of cyanocobalamin.

What is B12 in the body?

Share on Pinterest. Vitamin B-12 can be taken in the form of injections. Vitamin B-12 is an essential water-soluble vitamin that plays an important role in many functions in the body, including: DNA synthesis. energy production.

What are the benefits of taking B12 shots?

The most obvious benefit of receiving vitamin B-12 shots is treating a vitamin B-12 deficiency and avoiding its associated symptoms. In addition, B-12 shots reduce the risk of some serious complications associated with vitamin B-12 deficiency including: heart disease. neurocognitive disorders.

Why is it important to have adequate stomach acid to absorb vitamin B12?

Adequate stomach acid is required to release the vitamin from the protein , and a substance called intrinsic factor is necessary to ensure its absorption. People who are unable to absorb vitamin B-12 properly may have pernicious anemia, which is a type of anemia characterized by a lack of intrinsic factor.

Why is B12 not absorbed?

People with gastrointestinal issues. A gastrointestinal tract that does not function normally may inhibit vitamin B-12 release or absorption. For this reason, people with disorders such as celiac disease and Crohn’s disease may be at higher risk of vitamin B-12 deficiency.

What are the symptoms of B12 deficiency?

Some common signs and symptoms include: decreased cognitive function, such as issues with memory or understanding. fatigue.

Where is B12 found?

B-12 is present in many food sources (mainly animal-based), where it is bound to the protein molecules in that food. Vitamin B-12 is separated from the protein during digestion and is absorbed into the bloodstream.

Why do older people get vitamin B12?

Older people are more likely to get vitamin B12 deficiencies because it is absorbed from food by stomach acid. As you age, however, your stomach acid starts to decline. That’s why it is important to get tested for a vitamin B12 deficiency as you age. If you have a vitamin B12 deficiency, don’t worry. It is the most common vitamin deficiency in the ...

Why is B12 important?

It is vital for good health and cognitive functioning. Studies continue to show all the ways it is beneficial for your overall health. So next time you go to the doctor, check and see if you need some B12 in your life. Pagination.

How do you know if you have a vitamin B12 deficiency?

Some physical signs that you may have a vitamin B12 deficiency include: Tingling or numbness in the hands, legs, or feet. Difficulty walking. Anemia. Swollen, inflamed tongue. Yellowed skin.

What are the long term effects of B12 deficiency?

Often, more long-term consequences of an advanced B12 deficiency in older people involve weaker red blood cell formation, lower metabolism, impaired nerve functioning, and weaker bone health. B12 deficiencies are also heavily linked with neurological disorders like Alzheimer’s or dementia. Continued.

What foods are high in B12?

Some examples with vitamin B12 rich foods include: Fortified cereals. Eggs.

Can you overdose on B12?

Additionally, there is no way that you will overdose on B12, so don’t worry about taking too much. This number is also higher in certain European countries as well as the fact that vitamin B12’s benefits have been speculated to be even more widespread than traditionally thought.

Is B12 a natural deficiency?

It is the most common vitamin deficiency in the developing world. It is a perfectly natural deficiency for an older person to have, and there are many ways to treat it.

Overview

Vitamin B-12 (cobalamin) plays an essential role in red blood cell formation, cell metabolism, nerve function and the production of DNA, the molecules inside cells that carry genetic information.

Evidence

Research on the use of vitamin B-12 for specific activities and conditions shows:

Our take

Most people get enough vitamin B-12 from a balanced diet. However, older adults, vegetarians, vegans and people who have conditions that affect their ability to absorb vitamin B-12 from foods might benefit from the use of oral supplements.

Safety and side effects

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. Your body absorbs only as much as it needs, and any excess passes through your urine.

Interactions

Aminosalicylic acid (Paser). Taking this drug used to treat digestive problems might reduce your body's ability to absorb vitamin B-12.

What is B12 in a supplement?

As a supplement, vitamin B12 is usually cyanocobalamin, which is a form that is readily converted into active methylcobalamin and 5-deoxyadenosylcobalamin by your body. Dietary supplements can also contain other forms of B12. All forms have similar absorption and bioavailability.

What is the B12 group?

Known as cobalamin, vitamin B12 is one of a group of eight vitamins that make up the B-complex group. Vitamin B12 benefits many metabolic functions in your body, including keeping your nervous and neurological systems healthy.

Why is my B12 not absorbing?

If your body is not absorbing vitamin B12 properly, or if your demands for the vitamin are higher, it may be due to a condition that requires you to take supplements. Some of these conditions include: A vegetarian or vegan diet. Recovery from gastrointestinal or weight-loss surgery. Pregnancy or breastfeeding.

What are the symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency?

Symptoms may include: Sensations of numbness and tingling in the hands, legs or feet. Difficulty walking and problems with balance. Anemia.

What happens if you don't take vitamin B12?

Swelling or inflammation of the tongue. Impaired cognitive difficulties or memory loss. Weakness and fatigue. Early detection of a deficiency and treatment is important as low vitamin B12 can cause severe neurological problems and blood diseases. Advertisement.

Where is B12 stored?

Although vitamin B12 can be stored in your liver, if you are taking supplements to treat a deficiency, not all of the vitamin B12 can be used by your body at once. For example, about 20 micrograms from a 1,000 microgram oral B12 dosage supplement are absorbed by your body.

What is the best source of B12?

Food Sources of Vitamin B12. Vitamin B12 is produced by bacteria in the bodies of certain animals, so foods containing B12 are only animal-based foods. Beef liver and clams contain the most vitamin B12 per serving. Plant-based foods are often fortified with B12, useful if you don't eat meat or fish.