Vitamin B12 Injections: Why Do You Need Them?

Most people with vitamin B12 deficiency believe that taking vitamin B12 injections will supplement their deficiency and help ensure adequate nutrient intake. There are claims that vitamin B12 supplements also help with weight loss and increase brain functions and energy levels. But, do vitamin B12 supplements really help? Let us look at some facts regarding B12 injections.

Vitamin B12 – What is it?

Also known as cobalamin, vitamin B12 is a water-soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in the production of red blood cells and DNA. It is also vital for the effective functioning of the human brain. While vitamin B12 exists in many forms chemically, the one common factor in all is the presence of cobalt. 

Vitamin B12 – Deficiency

6 micrograms are the recommended daily intake of vitamin B12 for adults. However, B12 deficiency is a very common problem. Vitamin B12 deficiency is found more in people who follow a vegan or vegetarian diet as B12 is not present in plant material. Even though B12 is present in meat, there are meat eaters who are also deficient in the vitamin – this is due to their inability to absorb this vitamin. As per this article on B12 shots injection(https://www.patchmd.com/b12-shots-injections.html), the absorption of B12 depends on the ‘intrinsic factor’, a protein that is produced in our stomach. Vitamin B12 is absorbed by the blood, but only after it has been bound by the intrinsic factor. Insufficient production of intrinsic factor can lead to B12 deficiency. 

Vitamin B12 – Injections as Supplements

The most common method of prevention and treatment of vitamin B12 deficiency relates to taking B12 injections as supplements. This injection should, however, be taken if and only when prescribed by a medical practitioner. 

Vitamin B12 Injections – Health Benefits

Vitamin B2 deficiency can lead to serious health issues, some of which are:

• A decline in brain function that could result in dementia.
• Minor to major instances of depression.
• Low levels of vitamin B12 is linked to reduced bone mass, thus increasing the risk of osteoporosis.
• Low levels of B12 could lead to macular degeneration. 

Vitamin B12 Injections – Side Effects

There have been no recorded side effects of vitamin B12 injections. Some people may experience discomfort due to sensitivity or the effects of an allergic reaction. However, such cases are very rare. 

Vitamin B12 – Other Sources

Vitamin B12 is present naturally in animal meat. Beef kidney and ground beef, liver, salmon, trout, eggs, chicken, and milk are other good sources of vitamin B12. Thus, it is difficult for those following a vegetarian or vegan diet to get their daily intake of B12. However, there are other food products such as cereals and milk alternatives that are fortified with added vitamin B12. 

Vitamin B12 Injections – Do You Need It?

For those who eat foods rich in vitamin B12, there should be no need to take supplements. However, in case you have a B12 deficiency, your doctor might recommend taking B12 injections, particularly if dietary and /or oral supplements do not prove to be effective. A word of advice. Always consult your doctor before you start taking B12 injections.