Many people in the U.S. are unknowingly deficient of vitamin B12 due to their lack of awareness of its importance for their bodies. This organic compound is necessary for the proper function and development of the body’s nervous and circulatory systems, and if you suspect your intake is low, a B12 injection from your family medical practice can give you the boost you need. Here’s more on what vitamin B12 is and why it’s essential for maintaining a healthy body.

What Vitamin B12 Is

As an essential nutrient in the body, vitamin B12 is vital for nerve tissue health, proper brain function and development, the formation of red blood cells, and DNA synthesis. The recommended daily allowance of this nutrient for adults is 2.4 micrograms. However, how much you actually need is contingent on your age, whether you have certain medical conditions, and what medications you are taking. Women who are pregnant or lactating also typically need higher amounts.

Why It’s Important

Not everyone can easily absorb vitamin B12 because of reasons such as old age, weight loss surgery, and acid-reducing medications. Lack of absorption may lead to vitamin B12 deficiency, which can result in anemia and, in worse cases, damage to the nervous system and brain. Mild deficiency will not exhibit any symptoms, but if left untreated, it can lead to problems such as tiredness, shortness of breath, heart palpitations, constipation, loss of appetite, vision loss, muscle weakness, depression, and memory loss. Vitamin B12 has also proven effective at treating illnesses like canker sores, macular degeneration, and shingles-related nerve damage.  

How Vitamin B12 Is Absorbed

The human body cannot produce vitamin B12 and store it for prolonged periods, but you can get the nutrient from animal products like meat, eggs, poultry, dairy, and seafood. If you’re vegan or you’ve eliminated meat from your diet, you can use nasal sprays or take supplements and foods fortified with vitamin B12. If you’re interested in a B12 injection, talk to a physician at your family medical practice about how a shot could help supplement your vitamin intake.

To make sure you’re getting enough vitamin B12, visit the family medical practice of Robertsdale Urgent Care for a B12 injection. This walk-in clinic also offers flu shots and vaccinations to patients in and around Baldwin County, AL. They treat patients of all ages and offer sports and work physicals. Call (251) 947-3591 to schedule an appointment, or visit their website for more information on the other medical services provided.