Vitamin B12 is essential for maintaining a healthy brain and nervous system, and low levels of Vitamin B12 have been associated with Depression and Anxiety.
Our bodies do not make B12, but most people get enough from having a balanced diet. For example, foods such as Beef, Chicken, Shellfish, Eggs, Dairy, and foods fortified with vitamins, are great sources of Vitamin B12. However, some people at risk of having low B12 levels, in particular vegetarians and vegans. “Vegetarians [and vegans] should thus take preventive measures to ensure adequate intake of this vitamin, including regular consumption of supplements containing B12.” 1
What if we don’t get enough B12?
Low levels of Vitamin B12 can result in folate deficiency anemia, a condition where the body makes unusually large red blood cells. The abnormally large cells actually have lower levels of haemoglobin, which is what carries oxygen through the body.
Symptoms of deficiency can include:
- Tiredness and Lack of Energy
- Pins and Needles
- Mouth Ulcers
- Depression and Confusion
- Memory Problems
Vitamin B12 and Depression?
It is difficult for scientists to confirm whether low B12 levels truly cause depression, or rather that depression and the likely worsening diet of a depressed individual led to low levels of B12, but one thing is certain, there is a connection between the two.
The general consensus seems to be, “…that supplementation of Vitamin B12 early enough can delay the onset of depression and improve the effect of anti-depressants when used in conjunction with Vitamin B12.” 2
Can I take too much Vitamin B12?
Being a water soluble vitamin, our bodies don’t hold on to excess amounts consumed. Supplementation of Vitamin B12 in addition to a balanced diet in healthy individuals is unlikely to have any adverse effects. It is still recommended however, to discuss with your healthcare provider who can assess your levels of Vitamin B12 and suggest appropriate supplementation amounts should that be required.
At Enlightened Mind we appreciate our client’s attitudes toward preventative healthcare – as the more one focuses on healthy living, we can prevent problems before they start. We are here for you every step of the way!
We offer a wide variety of Vitamins and Supplements, and are sure to have exactly what you need.
Our Vitamin B12 is great tasting, easy to use, and a quick absorbing liquid formulation – click below to learn more:
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- Pawlak R, Parrott SJ, Raj S, Cullum-Dugan D, Lucus D. How prevalent is vitamin B(12) deficiency among vegetarians? Nutr Rev. 2013 Feb;71(2):110-7. doi: 10.1111/nure.12001. Epub 2013 Jan 2. PMID: 23356638.
- Sangle P, Sandhu O, Aftab Z, Anthony AT, Khan S. Vitamin B12 Supplementation: Preventing Onset and Improving Prognosis of Depression. Cureus. 2020 Oct 26;12(10):e11169. doi: 10.7759/cureus.11169. PMID: 33251075; PMCID: PMC7688056.