← All ingredients
Vitamin B12
Also called: Cobalamin
Keeps nerves healthy and helps make red blood cells and energy. Absorption drops with age, low stomach acid, some medicines, and autoimmune gastritis.
Commonly used for
- Low B12 on a blood test
- Fatigue from B12-deficiency anemia
- Plant-based diets
- Long-term metformin or acid-reducing medicine
Found naturally in
- Meat and fish
- Eggs
- Dairy
- Fortified nutritional yeast
Label red flags
- High-dose B12 started before testing, which can make later blood tests hard to interpret
Check with a provider
- Numbness, tingling, or balance problems: get tested before starting, since B12 deficiency needs a diagnosis
- Pernicious anemia needs lifelong treatment and monitoring, not just a supplement
Supplements that contain it
Brand nameProduct nameB-complex formulasComing soon
Brand nameProduct nameMultivitaminsComing soon
Brand nameProduct namePrenatalsComing soon
Brand nameProduct nameEnergy formulasComing soon
Brand nameProduct nameB-complex formulasComing soon
Brand nameProduct nameMultivitaminsComing soon
Parts of the body it affects
Explore what each area does and the conditions that can affect it.
Blood & immune system
Blood carries oxygen and nutrients, and white blood cells defend you from infection. In autoimmune disease, that defense system targets your own tissues.
Brain & nerves
Your brain, spinal cord, and nerves carry every signal in your body, from movement and sensation to mood and memory.
Illustrations: Servier Medical Art, CC BY 4.0
Wondering if your symptoms fit a pattern?
Dr. Lesher is a naturopathic doctor who specializes in women's autoimmune and chronic conditions. Since 2020, she has helped more than 900 patients overcome and heal from their conditions.