Basically, B12 is essential for health, performance and well-being. The most noted benefits of B12 is its ability to boost one's energy level, and speed up your metabolism.
Vitamin B12 is a water soluble vitamin. Vitamin B12 exists in several forms and contains the mineral cobalt, so compounds with Vitamin B12 activity are collectively called "cobalamins". It plays many roles in our bodies from maintaining proper red blood formation, neurological function, DNA synthesis (genetic material), energy metabolism, proper functioning of our brains, hearts, livers and kidneys. Basically it is essential for health, performance and well-being. Vitamin B12 functions as a cofactor for methionine synthesis. Methionine synthesis catalyses the conversion of homocysteine to methionine. It works in concert with Vitamin B6 and Folic acid to help control homocysteine levels. Excessive levels of homocysteine have been linked to increased stroke, osteoporosis, heart disease and Alzheimer's disease.† Vitamin B12 is bound to the protein in food. Hydrochloric Acid in the stomach, releases B12 from protein during digestion. Once released, B12 combines with a substance called Intrinsic Factor (IF) before it is absorbed into the bloodstream.
A deficiency of Vitamin B12 in the blood can lead to a blood disorder called Pernicious Anemia. Those with the disorder are unable to produce enough of a protein substance – IF (Intrinsic Factor) in their stomach that allows the body to absorb Vitamin B12. Vitamin B12 should be taken sublingually directly introducing the delivery to the patient's bloodstream, bypassing the stomach which is unable to absorb it properly.
Deficiencies are fairly common and are caused by inadequate intake, disease or a lack of the intrinsic factor. Common symptoms are fatigue and forgetfulness. There is some research which concludes that vegetarians are more likely to be deficient than non-vegetarians. Since B12 is water-soluble, and in plants tend to be in free form (not protein bound) much of the B12 might diffuse into the water and be discarded during cooking. Infants of vegan mothers have almost no B12 in their enterohepatic circulation. Approximately 2% of older adults do not produce enough Intrinsic Factor, while 10-30% of people over 50 may have protein-bound B12 malabsorption.† Calcium is necessary for the absorption of B12. Adequate calcium can be obtained from dietary supplements: collards, kale, turnip greens, mustard greens, radish greens and/or broccoli. Patients who suffer with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome can make excellent use of B12 by taking the therapeutic amount; the therapeutic amount is 1,000 micrograms. B12 has been known to help individuals who feel tired and worn down.
The most noted benefits of B12 is its ability to boost one's energy level, and speed up your metabolism. Absorption of B12 is a problem with many supplements. Swallowing 500 microgram of cyanocobalamin can result in as little as 1.8 micrograms and may not provide an adequate daily intake. The best approach is to spray Vitamin B12 under the tongue every day. That may provide enough to maintain adequate body stores. However, if a deficiency is actually present, then it may require 10 to 15 sprays (600-750 mcg) per day for two months, then followed by 5 to 6 sprays (300-360 mcg) per day. Of course your doctor can direct you in the proper amount. Some physicians still maintain that monthly injections of Vitamin B12 is required to maintain adequate levels in the elderly and in patients with diagnosed deficiency. There is however, no scientific evidence supporting the notion that injections are more effective than sublingual supplementation.†
Each spray is inclined to deliver approximately 60 micrograms of Vitamin B12. Five to six sprays daily will deliver 300 to 360 mcg's. For a known deficiency it may be necessary to increase to 10-15 sprays per day (divided in 2 to 3 times per day) for one month and then reduce to 5 to 6 sprays per day for the following month Spray in mouth under tongue and continue to hold in mouth until absorbed.