Vitamin B12

Vitamin B12 is a special vitamin that helps our bodies use energy from food. It keeps our nerves and blood healthy. It also helps make DNA, which is a tiny part inside every cell that makes you, you!

Animals need vitamin B12 to stay healthy, but tiny creatures called archaea and bacteria make it. We get this vitamin from eating meat, shellfish, liver, fish, poultry, eggs, and dairy products. Some breakfast cereals have extra vitamin B12 added to them, and we can also find it in special dietary supplement pills.

Most people have enough vitamin B12 in their bodies, but some groups, like older adults and growing children, need to be careful. Not having enough vitamin B12 can make people feel very tired. It is very important for children because it helps them grow and learn well.

Vitamin B12 comes in different forms, like cyanocobalamin, hydroxocobalamin, and methylcobalamin. They all work in similar ways in our bodies. Cyanocobalamin is often used in foods and vitamins because it stays strong. Hydroxocobalamin is used to help people who don’t have enough vitamin B12.

People who don’t eat animal foods, like vegans, should use supplements or fortified foods to get enough vitamin B12. This helps keep their bodies healthy and strong.