Is B12 one of your supplement 'non-negotiables' yet? There are SO many benefits of taking B12, aka cobalamin. Your body needs this vital vitamin for everything from red blood cell formation to neurological function, DNA synthesis and so much more. A regular B12 supplement is great for B12 deficiency management, as well as providing well-known pros, like extra energy and improved cognitive function, AND more obscure gains, such as enhanced eye health and stronger bones. But for certain people, this vital nutrient is absolutely essential for optimal wellbeing:
1. Over 50s can use a patch for B12 deficiency management:
While the NHS advises over-65s should take a supplement for B12 deficiency management, health authorities in the US advise everyone over 50 should be topping up. This is because many older adults don't have enough hydrochloric acid in their stomach to absorb the B12 in food. The risks of B12 deficiency climb as you get older, with around one in 10 people aged 75 and over believed to be not getting enough. But don't worry, you can start safeguarding your B12 status right now, by topping up your levels with one of our handy B12 patches.
2. Vegans and vegetarians:
Want to boost your B12 levels with your diet? You'll need plenty of meat, dairy, and eggs on the menu, because these foods contain the most natural B12. A no-go if you're vegan or vegetarian! Lots of cereals and plant milks are fortified with B12, but often not in high enough quantities to boost your levels adequately. And topping up in this way also isn't ideal if you're trying to avoid processed foods… Instead, consider trying a B12 patch for B12 deficiency management.
3. Gut issues? A supplement is a must for b12 deficiency management for you too:
If you're living with gastrointestinal diseases like Crohn's, Ulcerative Colitis, or coeliac, your gut won't be able to absorb B12 efficiently. The same goes if you've had bariatric surgery (read our vitamin patch recommendations for this here). If this is you, then popping on a patch is the ideal way for you to boost your levels, as our B12 patch delivers the vitamin via the skin into your bloodstream, totally bypassing your gut.
4. Pregnant women:
Expecting? Popping on a B12 patch is a fab idea for you too. B12 is essential for the development and function of your baby's brain and spinal cord, and for forming healthy red blood cells – and many women can become deficient during pregnancy. Remember a vitamin patch is the same as taking an oral supplement, but you should always consult with your doctor before taking a supplement for B12 deficiency management.
5. If you're taking certain medications:
Taking PPIs for acid reflux, or metformin for diabetes? Both these common medicines can interfere with your B12 absorption. If you're taking either, a sensible way to tackle B12 deficiency management is to wear a B12 patch when you take your prescribed drugs, so your B12 levels don't take a hit.
And those aren't the only individuals who might feel better after taking B12! Look out for part 2 of the blog to discover which of our handy patches we'd recommend to improve cognitive function, fight fatigue , and more….