B12 is a necessary and vital nutrient that we need in our bodies. And sometimes we need extra B12 added to our diet.
Sign up for our email newsletter for the latest science news Vitamin B12 is an essential nutrient that plays an indispensable role in keeping the body healthy. Most people get enough B12 from animal-based foods in their diets without issue. Certain lifestyle factors or medical conditions, however, can cause vitamin B12 deficiency, resulting in serious health problems. For many B12-deficient individuals, adding extra B12 to the diet with supplements or fortified foods can easily correct the problem. But how much do you actually need and how does it impact your body? The Role of B12 in the Body Our bodies naturally store B12, although just how much varies from person to person. "We all have a certain amount of B12 stored – every infant is born with a certain amount of B12 derived from maternal sources," says Ralph Green, a pathologist at University of California, Davis. After we're born, B12 from our diet that we don't use goes to restock our B12 stores. These internal reserves can last for a year or more, providing a safety net against potential deficiencies. The reason why our bodies need B12 is that it's critical for nervous system development and function. Specifically, B12 maintains the health of nerve cells and ensures the efficient transmission of signals throughout the body. How Much B12 Per Day? According to experts, we should have a daily intake of 2.4 micrograms (mcg) of vitamin B12 for anyone over 14. Pregnant and lactating women should slightly increase their daily intake to support fetal and infant health. And without enough B12 to support the nervous system, people can experience numbness or tingling in the limbs and difficulty with…