Choosing the right Vitamin B12 supplement can be overwhelming, given the plethora of options available. With various brands, ingredient formulations, and dosage forms, it's crucial to select one that suits your dietary needs and health goals.
To simplify the process, we've partnered with Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, Kathy Shattler. Together, we’ll walk you through the key factors to consider when choosing a supplement and highlight some top-rated Vitamin B12 options. Our detailed guide covers everything from the essential health benefits of B12 to the importance of absorption rates, ensuring you find the perfect supplement for your lifestyle and nutritional needs.
Read on to find the best Vitamin B12 supplements and make an informed choice for your health.
Quick List - Top Vitamin B12 Supplement
Nature Made Nutritional Products
60-Day Supply from a Trusted Pharmacist-Recommended Brand
Jarrow Formulas
Lemon-Flavored B-12 with Non-GMO Ingredients
Naturelo Premium Supplements LLC
Vegan B12 with Organic Spirulina
A Registered Dietitian Nutritionist for over 25 years, Kathy has mastered numerous medical specialties and teaching methods: health promotion, counseling, academic teaching, endocrinology, psychiatry/mental health, supplements, diabetes, obesity, heart disease, aging, and alternative medicine. Experiences include: -Managing her own telehealth/nutrition consulting business -Directing a continuing education program for RDs and nurses -Consulting for long-term care regulatory affairs -Working with State and local health departments -Coordinating diabetes education programs Her experiences led her to reach people with life-changing information as a medical editor and writer. For over five years, Kathy has acquired increasingly complex roles. Passionate about the root causes of disease, she obtained her certification in Integrative Medicine and Functional Nutrition from the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics three years ago. This series continues to influence her approach to writing.
mybest US' editing team consists of experienced members who have backgrounds in writing, editing, translation, and more. We are dedicated to researching what makes a product or service the best to users in the US in order to create top-quality articles. From skincare, to kitchen appliances, and to DIY supplies, our mission is to find the best ones for you.
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Table of Contents
How much B12 you need depends on the condition being treated, and it is best to consult your doctor or RDN to determine the dose.
On average, adults need a recommended daily allowance of 2.4 micrograms of Vitamin B12, primarily obtained through diet from animal products like meat, dairy, and eggs. Vegans, older adults, and those with absorption issues due to conditions like Crohn's disease or medications such as antacids and metformin may require supplements to meet their needs. The proper amount for each need can vary by individual. Always consult with a doctor or registered medical professional before starting any supplements.
In conditions where absorption is low, like atrophic gastritis, you have to take higher amounts than the RDI; this is called medical nutrition therapy and is only licensed to be practiced by RDs. I recommend an individualized assessment for supplement prescriptions.
Choose supplements that are third-party tested to guarantee potency and quality. In addition, read labels for harmful substances like maltodextrin or silicon dioxide.
For those prioritizing high-quality B12 supplements, it's essential to opt for products that undergo third-party testing to ensure purity and accuracy. You can look for trusted certifications such as the USP Verified Mark and NSF Certification.
Supplements like Nature Made's B12 Softgels are recommended for their quality and adherence to strict verification standards that validate supplement label accuracy. Avoiding additives such as silicon dioxide and maltodextrin, which can adversely affect gut health, is crucial when selecting supplements to support overall well-being and health maintenance.
B12 comes in many different forms. Some may be more suitable for certain users than others. Remember to consider your preferences and needs.
Pills and lozenges offer higher B12 doses and fewer additives, providing convenient options for effective supplementation.
When considering B12 supplements for convenience, tablets, capsules, and lozenges are preferred for their higher doses and fewer additives. While gummies tend to contain additives, they can be a good option for individuals who find pills difficult to swallow. These forms ensure effective daily supplementation, with lozenges offering sublingual absorption benefits.
Liquid forms may offer faster absorption and are beneficial for individuals with swallowing difficulties or those requiring precise dosage adjustments.
Nasal sprays, gels, and liquid drops of vitamin B12 are favored for their quicker rate of absorption, bypassing digestive issues, and offering convenience. While they provide quick results, their overall absorption efficiency compared to traditional forms remains similar, necessitating consultation with healthcare providers for optimal dosage and effectiveness.
What about transdermal patches? We asked Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, Kathy Shattler whether they are a good choice for vitamin B12 supplementation below.
B12 transdermal patches lack researched effectiveness and are considered health fraud due to their unapproved status and inability to make structure-function claims approved by the FDA. The absorption rate through the skin barrier is minimal, around 1%, which is not sufficient for therapeutic use, primarily due to the particle size barrier.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | ||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Vitamin B12 Content | Organic | Product Amount | Type of B12 | Vegan | Form | |||||
1 | Garden of Life, Inc. Vitamin Code|Raw B-12 | ![]() | Clean and Natural B12 for Vegans | 1000mcg | 30 capsules | Methylcobalamin | Capsules | |||
2 | Nature Made Nutritional Products Nature Made|Vitamin B12 Extra Strength | ![]() | 60-Day Supply from a Trusted Pharmacist-Recommended Brand | 2500mcg | 60 tablets | Cyanocobalamin | Tablets | |||
3 | Jarrow Formulas Jarrow Formulas|Methyl B-12 & Methyl Folate Lemon | ![]() | Lemon-Flavored B-12 with Non-GMO Ingredients | 1000mcg | 100 tablets | Methylcobalamin | Tablets | |||
4 | Naturelo Premium Supplements LLC Naturelo |Vegan Vitamin B12 Supplement With Spirulina | ![]() | Vegan B12 with Organic Spirulina | 1000mcg | 90 capsules | Methylcobalamin | Capsules | |||
5 | Amazon.com Services LLC Amazon Basics|Vitamin B12 3000 mcg Gummies | ![]() | High-Dose B12 Raspberry-Flavored Vegan Gummies | 3000mcg | 100 gummies | Methylcobalamin, Hydroxycobalamin | Gummies | |||
6 | Cymbiotika Cymbiotika|Liposomal Vitamin B12 + B6 | ![]() | Vegan Liquid Supplement for Enhanced Absorption | 1250mcg | 2.0 fl. oz. | Methylcobalamin, Adenosylcobalamin, Hydroxycobalamin | Spray | |||
7 | Nutrawise Youtheory|B12B6 Capsule | ![]() | Vegan B12B6 Capsules for Immune and Nerve Health | 1000mcg | 60 capsules | Methylcobalamin | Capsules | |||
8 | Bronson Pharmaceuticals Bronson|Vitamin B12 Sustained Release Non-GMO | ![]() | Sustained Release for Steady B12 Levels | 1000mcg | 100 tablets | Cyanocobalamin | Tablets | |||
9 | Nature's Bounty, Inc. Nature's Bounty|Vitamin B-12 | ![]() | Quick-Dissolve B12 for Easy Absorption | 2500mcg | 300 tablets | Methylcobalamin | Tablets | |||
10 | Doctor's Best, Inc. Doctor's Best|Fully Active B12 | ![]() | Gluten-Free, Non-GMO B12 for Overall Well-Being | 1500mcg | 180 capsules | Methylcobalamin | Capsules |
Vitamin B12 Content | 1000mcg |
---|---|
Type of B12 | Methylcobalamin |
Additionally, it includes a blend of probiotics and enzymes for digestive health and a vegetable blend for extra nutritional support. This vegan B12 vitamin is raw, gluten-free, and dairy-free, with no binders or fillers, making it a clean and natural choice for those seeking to maintain their B12 levels.
Organic | |
---|---|
Product Amount | 30 capsules |
Form | Capsules |
Vitamin B12 Content | 2500mcg |
---|---|
Type of B12 | Cyanocobalamin |
Nature Mads's tablets are designed to help break down food into energy your body can use all day long. Sourced from high-quality ingredients, this gluten-free supplement contains no added colors or artificial flavors.
Each bottle provides a 60-day supply, with adults recommended to take one tablet daily with water and a meal. Trusted for its quality, Nature Made is the #1 Pharmacist Recommended Vitamin and Supplement Brand, and their supplements are verified by the United States Pharmacopeia (USP) for ingredients, potency, and manufacturing process.
Organic | |
---|---|
Product Amount | 60 tablets |
Form | Tablets |
Vitamin B12 Content | 1000mcg |
---|---|
Type of B12 | Methylcobalamin |
Jarrow Formulas' Extra Strength Methyl B-12 comes in chewable tablets that support energy metabolism, brain and nerve health, and cardiovascular function. Each bottle contains 100 lemon-flavored chewable tablets, providing a 100-day supply.
This vegan, gluten-free supplement features active forms of Vitamins B12, B9, and B6, which are essential for cell function and cardiovascular health. It is made with non-GMO ingredients and is free from common allergens.
Organic | |
---|---|
Product Amount | 100 tablets |
Form | Tablets |
Vitamin B12 Content | 1000mcg |
---|---|
Type of B12 | Methylcobalamin |
NATURELO Vegan B12 offers a potent 1000 mcg dose of methylcobalamin, a bioactive form of vitamin B12. It is ideal for vegans and vegetarians who may miss out on B12 from plant-based foods.
This supplement includes organic spirulina, which provides natural B vitamins, protein, and essential minerals. It is made from non-GMO, gluten-free, soy-free, vegan, and vegetarian ingredients and contains no coloring, flavoring, or preservatives.
Organic | |
---|---|
Product Amount | 90 capsules |
Form | Capsules |
Vitamin B12 Content | 3000mcg |
---|---|
Type of B12 | Methylcobalamin, Hydroxycobalamin |
Amazon Basics' Vitamin B12 3000 mcg gummies claim to support energy production, red blood cell formation, brain function, cognition, and immune health.
These soft, pectin-based vegan gummies, which come in a raspberry flavor, are free from gluten, wheat, dairy, soy, and egg. Each pack contains 200 gummies, which, when taken as directed, provide over a three-month supply.
Organic | |
---|---|
Product Amount | 100 gummies |
Form | Gummies |
Vitamin B12 Content | 1250mcg |
---|---|
Type of B12 | Methylcobalamin, Adenosylcobalamin, Hydroxycobalamin |
Cymbiotika Liposomal Vitamin B12 Liquid Supplement features a blend of the three most bioactive forms of vitamin B12 (methylcobalamin, hydroxocobalamin, and adenosylcobalamin) along with vitamin B6. This B vitamin complex supports energy production, mood, heart health, and the health of skin, hair, and nails. Utilizing advanced liposomal technology, this formula ensures enhanced absorption and bioavailability. T
The supplement includes l-methylfolate to aid in red blood cell formation and neurotransmitter production. Cymbiotika’s supplement is gluten-free, soy-free, keto, vegan, and free from chemicals, animal products, alcohols, additives, and preservatives.
Organic | |
---|---|
Product Amount | 2.0 fl. oz. |
Form | Spray |
Vitamin B12 Content | 1000mcg |
---|---|
Type of B12 | Methylcobalamin |
Youtheory's B12B6 Capsule combines essential nutrients to support brain health, a healthy immune system, and overall well-being. This supplement may aid in the metabolism of DNA, proteins, carbohydrates, and fats, converting food into cellular energy.
Vitamins B12 and B6 promote healthy nerve and blood cells, which help remove harmful toxins from the body. These daily vitamins are designed for men and women to enhance brain health and energy levels, supporting your wellness journey at any life stage. The capsules are vegan, dairy-free, soy-free, and contain no gluten ingredients.
Organic | |
---|---|
Product Amount | 60 capsules |
Form | Capsules |
Vitamin B12 Content | 1000mcg |
---|---|
Type of B12 | Cyanocobalamin |
Bronson Vitamin B12 Sustained Release provides 1000 mcg of cyanocobalamin in a superior sustained release tablet. This formulation releases slowly over time to maintain steady B12 levels, supporting healthy energy levels throughout the day and aiding in the function of the nervous system and brain cells.
The vegan formula is non-GMO, gluten-free, and soy-free, ensuring purity and quality. Bronson claims to adhere to rigorous standards for purity, potency, and integrity.
Organic | |
---|---|
Product Amount | 100 tablets |
Form | Tablets |
Vitamin B12 Content | 2500mcg |
---|---|
Type of B12 | Methylcobalamin |
Nature’s Bounty's Vitamin B-12 Quick Dissolve Tablets offer 1000 mcg of methylcobalamin, the active form of Vitamin B12, per serving. They dissolve quickly with a natural cherry flavor, making them a convenient option for those who prefer not to swallow pills.
The vegetarian-friendly tablets are free from sugar, artificial flavors, soy, gluten, fish, and dairy. Third-party tested for quality and efficacy, these sublingual tablets are placed under the tongue for 30 seconds before swallowing, ensuring effective absorption. This is especially beneficial for individuals with digestive or malabsorption issues.
Organic | |
---|---|
Product Amount | 300 tablets |
Form | Tablets |
Vitamin B12 Content | 1500mcg |
---|---|
Type of B12 | Methylcobalamin |
Doctor's Best's Fully Active B12 claims to support healthy memory, mood, circulation, and overall well-being with methylcobalamin, the most biochemically active form of Vitamin B12. Vitamin B12 is crucial for human health from conception through advanced age, playing essential roles in gene regulation (epigenetics), nerve cell communication, and cysteine management to prevent endothelial cell damage. This gluten-free, non-GMO, vegetarian, and vegan supplement ensures quality and efficacy.
Organic | |
---|---|
Product Amount | 180 capsules |
Form | Capsules |
We researched commonly asked questions and concerns from users about vitamin B12. With the help of Kathy Shattler, a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, we put together some answers.
B12's effects on DNA, the nervous system, and energy generation are particularly important. Common deficiencies in B1, B6, and B12 highlight the need for adequate supplementation to maintain overall health.
B12's effect on DNA, the brain and nervous system, and the generation of cellular energy are among the most important health benefits.
Vitamin B12 supplements are generally safe, but interactions with medications like Metformin and aspirin can deplete B12 levels, and vitamins like folate and vitamin C can affect its absorption. To optimize absorption, take B12 separately from other vitamins or medications by at least two hours and with food like meat or dairy. High doses can cause adverse effects, especially in those with coronary stents, diabetes, or cancer risk, and pregnant or lactating women should not exceed the recommended daily allowance.
Some medications and vitamins can deplete or interfere with B12, so take it with food separately from other pills. Avoid high doses unless recommended by a health professional, especially during pregnancy and lactation.
The choice of B12 form depends on treatment goals; Methylcobalamin is favored for neurological conditions due to its effective uptake by neuronal cells, while all forms can be used for repletion, such as treating pernicious anemia.
Vitamin B12 deficiency can cause fatigue, weakness, and anemia due to its role in red blood cell formation. Neurological symptoms like numbness, memory problems, and balance issues may occur, reflecting its importance in nerve function and DNA synthesis. Mood disturbances and cognitive impairments are also common. Severe deficiencies can lead to vision problems, increased risk of macular degeneration, and bone health issues. Early recognition and supplementation are essential to maintain overall health.
No. 1: Garden of Life, Inc.|Vitamin Code|Raw B-12
No. 2: Nature Made Nutritional Products|Nature Made|Vitamin B12 Extra Strength
No. 3: Jarrow Formulas|Jarrow Formulas|Methyl B-12 & Methyl Folate Lemon
No. 4: Naturelo Premium Supplements LLC|Naturelo |Vegan Vitamin B12 Supplement With Spirulina
No. 5: Amazon.com Services LLC|Amazon Basics|Vitamin B12 3000 mcg Gummies
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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