NOW Foods Vitamin B-12 5,000 mcg with Folic Acid - 60 Oral Tablets

What is vitamin B12 and why is it important?

Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is a water-soluble vitamin essential for numerous bodily functions. It plays a key role in energy production from food, nervous system maintenance, and red blood cell formation. This vitamin is mainly found in animal products, so people following vegetarian or vegan diets may be at higher risk of deficiency.

The NOW Foods Vitamin B-12 5,000 mcg with Folic Acid supplement offers a high dose of cyanocobalamin, the most stable and studied form of vitamin B12, along with folic acid (vitamin B9), which work synergistically to support overall health.

Key benefits of vitamin B12 with folic acid

The combination of vitamin B12 and folic acid offers multiple benefits supported by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA):

• Normal energy metabolism: Vitamin B12 contributes to normal energy metabolism, helping to convert food into usable energy.
• Reduction of tiredness and fatigue: It helps reduce feelings of tiredness and fatigue, which can improve daily performance.
• Healthy nervous system: Vitamin B12 contributes to the normal functioning of the nervous system, maintaining neurons and myelin.
• Red blood cell formation: Along with folic acid, B12 is essential for normal red blood cell formation and the prevention of megaloblastic anemia.
• Normal psychological function: It contributes to normal psychological function, including mood and mental clarity.

Folic acid alone also contributes to maternal tissue growth during pregnancy, although this product is formulated for adults in general.

Different forms of vitamin B12: cyanocobalamin vs methylcobalamin

There are several forms of vitamin B12 in supplements. Cyanocobalamin is the most common synthetic form, known for its stability and long shelf life. The body converts it into the active forms methylcobalamin and adenosylcobalamin. On the other hand, methylcobalamin is an active form that does not require conversion but is less stable.

NOW Foods uses cyanocobalamin in this product, ensuring high stability and precise dosing. For most people, this form is equally effective, especially when taken in adequate doses such as 5,000 mcg.

Who needs vitamin B12 supplements?

Certain groups are at higher risk of vitamin B12 deficiency. These include:

• Strict vegans and vegetarians, as the main dietary sources are animal-based.
• People over 50, due to lower gastric absorption.
• People with digestive disorders such as Crohn's disease, atrophic gastritis, or bariatric surgery.
• Those taking medications that interfere with B12 absorption, such as proton pump inhibitors or metformin.

This supplement provides 5,000 mcg per tablet, a high dose suitable for meeting needs even in cases of reduced absorption.

How to choose the best vitamin B12 supplement?

When selecting a vitamin B12 supplement, consider the form, dose, additional ingredients, and certifications. This NOW Foods product is vegan, kosher, and manufactured under strict GMP standards. Additionally, it contains folic acid, which complements the action of B12.

The sublingual lozenge presentation allows for sublingual absorption, which can be beneficial for individuals with gastrointestinal absorption issues.

Dosage and usage recommendations

It is recommended to take one lozenge daily. Allow it to dissolve in the mouth, preferably between meals. Do not exceed the recommended dose. Food supplements should not be used as a substitute for a varied and balanced diet.

Important: This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult a healthcare professional before use if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have any medical condition.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How much vitamin B12 do I need per day?

The reference intake for adults in the EU is 2.5 mcg per day. However, higher doses such as 5,000 mcg are used to correct deficiencies or in cases of malabsorption. Excess is eliminated in the urine.

Does vitamin B12 help with fatigue?

Yes, according to health claims approved by the EFSA, vitamin B12 contributes to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue.

Is this product suitable for vegans?

Yes, the product is vegan and certified as such by NOW Foods.

Food supplements should not be used as a substitute for a balanced diet. Do not exceed the recommended dose. Keep out of reach of children. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.