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Vitamin B12 is an essential water-soluble vitamin that plays an important role in many functions in the body, including:

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• DNA synthesis

• Energy production

• Nerve cell health

• Red blood cell formation

• Neurological function

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B12 is present in many food sources (mainly animal-based), where it is bound to the protein molecules in the food. Vitamin B12 is separated from the protein during digestion and is absorbed into the bloodstream.

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Adequate stomach acid is required to release the vitamin from the protein and a substance called intrinsic factor is necessary to ensure absorption.

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People who are unable to absorb vitamin B12 properly may have anaemia, which is caused by a lack of intrinsic factors. The average daily intake of vitamin B12, as recommended by the office of dietary supplements, is 2.4 micrograms (mcg) for men and women over 14. Pregnant and breastfeeding women require slightly more, at 2.6 mcg and 2.8 mcg.

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In addition to getting B12 from food sources, it is possible to acquire B12 through a man-made version of the nutrient, known as Cyanocobalamin. Vitamin B12 shots are injections containing high levels of Cyanocobalamin. These shots can quickly boost B12 levels in someone who is deficient.

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Some groups of people are more at risk of deficiency than others. Anyone who is displaying any signs and symptoms of a B12 deficiency or anaemia will notice symptoms such as:

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• Decreased cognitive function, such as issues with memory or understanding

• Fatigue

• Constipation

• Depression or irritability

• Headaches

• Sore, swollen tongue, which may be pale yellow or very red

• Heart palpitations

• Mouth ulcers

• Difficulty maintaining balance

• Pins and needles

• Vision changes

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Both diabetes and some medications for type 2 diabetes can increase the risk of vitamin B12 deficiency. Also, the following risk factors can increase the chance of developing B12 deficiency:

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• Alcohol abuse

• Smoking

• Vegetarian or vegan diet

• Ageing

• Gastric bypass or the removal of parts of the stomach

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As vitamin B12 is found in mainly fish, meat, eggs and dairy, people who do not consume these foods (vegetarians and vegans) are at risk of B12 deficiency and may benefit from regular B12 shots.

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There are lots of reasons to consider getting a B12 shot as explained above. There is no limit for the intake of vitamin B12 because the risk of toxicity or overdose is extremely low.

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Anyone with an allergy to Cyanobalamin, low potassium levels, kidney disease or lung disease, should not have B12 Injection shots.​