Vitamin B12 is critical for the body. B12 deficiency can lead to anaemia (not enough red blood cells) and problems with nerve conduction.
Who is at risk?
- Our ability to absorb B12 from our gut reduces as we get older, so people over 65 are more likely to need B12 supplementation..
- Vegetarian (especially vegan) diets can be low in B12
- People who take metformin, a drugs used to treat type 2 diabetes (T2D) or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
Do I have to get an injection of B12?
The most common treatment offered by Doctors is a B12 injection. Injections are great for getting B12 levels up quickly. You can maintain levels by using oral B12 drops regularly, and they are just as effective as injections for maintainance.