Can You Take Vitamin B12 Supplements Daily? Expert Shares Risks And Benefits

Achieving our daily vitamin goals via diet is not an easy task. That is where the role of supplements comes in. One such supplement which is often prescribed to people is – Vitamin B12 (cobalamin). So what exactly is Vitamin B12? It is a water-soluble nutrient, which is crucial for nerve tissue health, brain function, and red blood cell formation. It is naturally found in animal products such as meat, fish, eggs, and dairy. Its deficiency can lead to anemia, fatigue, and neurological issues. But is it safe to consume Vitamin B12 supplements daily? Let’s find out.

To get an expert view on this, we reached out to Dr Pooja Pillai, Consultant - Internal Medicine, Aster CMI Hospital, Bangalore.

Can You Take Vitamin B12 Supplements Daily?

Let us straightaway address the main point – can you take Vitamin B12 supplements daily? “Yes, Vitamin B12 supplements can usually be taken every day, especially if a person has a deficiency or is at risk, such as vegetarians, vegans, older adults, or people with absorption problems,” explains Dr Pillai.

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She adds, “Vitamin B12 helps in red blood cell formation, nerve health, brain function, and energy production. Taking it regularly can prevent anemia, weakness, memory problems, and nerve damage. Since B12 is a water-soluble vitamin, excess amounts are usually passed out in urine, which makes it generally safe when taken in recommended doses.”

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Risks Of Vitamin B12 Deficiency

As per a study by the American Cancer Society, if a person has a vitamin B12 deficiency due to pernicious anemia, their risk of developing stomach cancer is raised. Another 2024 study, conducted on 788 people, discovered that low levels of Vitamin B12 are common in cancer patients. The authors of the study thus mentions that lower levels of Vitamin B12 were common in early stage cancer, particularly those with colorectal cancer.

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On this note, let us take a look at the physical symptoms of Vitamin B12 deficiency:

• Feeling extremely tired or weak.
• Nausea, vomiting or diarrhea.
• Lacking hunger.
• Losing weight.
• Sore mouth or tongue ulcers
• Pale skin.

Some neurological and psychological symptoms include:

• Numbness or tingling sensations in your hands and feet.
• Vision issues.
• Having difficulty remembering things.
• Feeling depressed.
• Feeling irritable.
• Experiencing a change in the way you feel or behave.

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Here are certain situations or conditions that can lead to Vitamin B12 deficiency:

• Gastritis.
• Pernicious anemia.
• Digestive diseases.
• Surgery.
• Alcohol use disorder:
• MTFHR deficiency:
• Transcobalamin II deficiency.

Tips To Take Vitamin B12 Supplements The Right Way

Now we know that taking Vitamin B12 supplements daily can be beneficial for health. But can it have any side effects as well? “Taking very high doses without medical advice is not always necessary and may sometimes cause mild side effects like headache, nausea, diarrhea, or skin rashes. In rare cases, very high levels over a long time may hide other health issues or interact with certain medicines,” answers Dr Pillai.

On this note, the expert shares the right way to take the supplements. “It is best to confirm deficiency through a blood test before starting long-term supplementation. Follow the dosage advised by a doctor, and avoid self-prescribing high-strength injections or tablets. Eating B12-rich foods like dairy products, eggs, fish, and fortified cereals can also support healthy levels naturally,” concludes Dr Pillai.

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The Final Word

Vitamin B12 supplements can usually be taken every day, especially if a person has a deficiency or is at risk, such as vegetarians, vegans, older adults, or people with absorption problems. It is best to confirm deficiency and consult a doctor through a blood test before starting long-term supplementation.