Clinicians estimate vitamin B12 requirements using values such as: Recommended dietary allowance (RDA): RDArefers Trusted Source National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements Go to sourceto a daily intake that, on average, is enough to meet the nutritional requirements of almost all people without underlying health conditions
If you want to learn more, read our article about the photolysis of B12
It is important to understand that discovering high B12 levels should prompt investigation into potential underlying causes rather than focusing solely on the elevated vitamin itself
Vitamin B12 assists your body in using carbs, protein, and fat for energy
Individuals most likely to benefit include: Those with pernicious anemia People with gastrointestinal disorders (e.g., Crohns disease, celiac disease, chronic gastritis) Patients following bariatric (weight loss) surgery Older adults with absorption difficulties Strict vegetarians or vegans at risk for deficiency People taking medications that can decrease vitamin B12 levels Laboratory testing usually confirms B12 deficiency before starting injections
For people with confirmed vitamin deficiency, injectable B12 is a clinically well-established and effective treatment