B12 vs B Complex Vitamins (2023)
Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin)
a. Vitamin B12 Function
Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin is essential for several crucial functions in the body, including:
- Production of red blood cells. Vitamin B12 status and optimal range is essential for hemoglobin formation. A study aimed to assess the vitamin B12 status in Polish elite athletes and its influence on red blood cell parameters suggests that althletes should regularly monitor vitamin B12 concentration and maintain the range of 400–700 pg/mL as it may improve red blood cell parameters.
- Nerve function. It is important to make sure your body has adequate level of Vitamin B12 because lack of this vitamin can damage the nervous system even in those without megaloblastic anemia. Moreover, a study suggests that poor B12 in older adults (deficient B12 status and low serum B12) is associated with worse sensory and motor peripheral nerve function.
- DNA synthesis. The function of DNA synthesis is to replicate and create new DNA molecules, which is essential for cell growth, repair, and reproduction. Clinical vitamin B12 deficiency can result in megaloblastic anemia, which results from the inhibition of DNA synthesis. (R)
- Cognition health. A study suggests that vitamin B12 deficiency is linked to cognition, and replacement therapy may be an option to improve patient cognition outcomes. Further studies are still needed.
b. Where To Get Vitamin B12
It is mostly present in animal-based foods, such as meat, fish, dairy products, and eggs. Vegetarians and vegans may need to take supplements or eat foods that have been fortified with B12 because it is not naturally found in plant-based foods.
c. Vitamin B12 Deficiency
A deficiency in vitamin B12 can lead to anemia, neurological issues, fatigue, and other health problems, especially if left untreated.
d. Vitamin B12 Supplements
Vitamin B12 is available as a standalone supplement and is commonly used to address deficiencies or as a supplement for specific dietary preferences (e.g., veganism).
c. Where to Get Vitamin B Complex
d. Vitamin B Complex Deficiency
B Complex Vitamins
a. What is B Complex Made Of?B complex vitamins are a group of eight different B vitamins, including B1 (thiamine), B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin), B5 (pantothenic acid), B6 (pyridoxine), B7 (biotin), B9 (folic acid), and B12 (cobalamin).
b. Vitamin B Complex Function
Each B vitamin within the complex has its own unique functions in the body.
- B1 - Thiamin: Helps to convert glucose into energy and has a role in nerve function.
- B2 - Riboflavin: Primarily involved in energy production and helps vision and skin health.
- B3 - Niacin: Essential for the body to convert carbohydrates, fat and alcohol into energy. It helps maintain skin health and supports the nervous and digestive systems.
- B5 - Pantothenic Acid: Needed to metabolise carbohydrates, proteins, fats and alcohol as well as produce red blood cells and steroid hormones.
- B6 - Pyridoxine: Needed for protein and carbohydrate metabolism, the formation of red blood cells and certain brain chemicals. It influences brain processes and development, immune functionand steroid hormone activity.
- B7 - Biotin: Needed for energy metabolism, fat synthesis, amino acid metabolism and glycogen synthesis. High biotin intake can contribute to raised blood cholesterol levels.
- B9 - Folic Acid/Folate: Needed to form red blood cells, which carry oxygen around the body. ( It helps the development of the foetal nervous system, as well as DNA synthesis and cell growth. Women of child-bearing age need a diet rich in folate for this reason).
- B12 - Cobalamin: Production of red blood cells, maintain healthy nerve function, and the breaking down of some fatty acids and amino acids to produce energy. Vitamin B12 works closely with folate, to help make red blood cells and to help iron work better in the body.
Source: Foods Rich in: Vitamin B Complex
d. Vitamin B Complex Deficiency
Your health can be affected if you are lacking in one or more B vitamins. From energy production (B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B7) to neuron function (B1, B6, B12), red blood cell creation (B9, B12), and DNA synthesis (B9, B12), B vitamins are essential for a various bodily functions.
Moreover, a deficiency in any of these vitamins can lead to a range of symptoms and health issues, including fatigue, weakness, anemia, neurological problems, skin disorders, and mood disturbances.
e. Vitamin B Complex Supplements
B complex supplements are available, often as a combination of the eight B vitamins. They are commonly used to support overall health, energy levels, and nervous system function, particularly in individuals with dietary restrictions or malabsorption issues.
Should I Take B12 or B Complex?
While vitamin B12 is a single vitamin with specific functions, B complex vitamins encompass a group of eight different B vitamins with diverse roles in the body. B complex supplements are often used to ensure an adequate intake of all B vitamins, while vitamin B12 supplements are primarily used to address B12 deficiencies or specific dietary needs.However, individual B vitamin requirements can vary from person to person. Therefore, it's important to maintain an appropriate balance of all B vitamins for overall health and well-being. If you have concerns about your vitamin intake or suspect a deficiency, it's best to consult a healthcare professional for guidance and appropriate supplementation.
Best B Complex Vitamins
1. Divine Bounty Super B Complex Vitamins
Our extra strength formula contains all the essential B Vitamins in just one capsule. If you'd rather take your B Vitamins (like B 12 & 6) together in one convenient capsule, look no further! Divine Bounty offers one of the most potent Vitamin B-Complex formulas available.
Our formula is made up of only pure ingredients with no harmful additives. Simply the full B-Complex plus the combo of Inositol and Choline, two naturally occurring close cousins to the B Vitamin family. Our capsules are non GMO, soy free, gluten free and have no preservatives, stearates, silicone dioxide or artificial ingredients. A pure, clean formula.
Ingredients100mg Thiamin (Vitamin B1), 100mg Riboflavin (Vitamin B2), 20mg Niacin (Vitamin B3), 30mg Vitamin B6 (as pyridoxine HCl), 680mcg Folic Acid (Vitamin B9), 100 mcg Vitamin B12 (as cyanocobalamin), 100mcg Biotin (as d-biotin), 100mg Pantothenic Acid (Vitamin B5), 100mg Inositol, 20mg Choline.
Ratings: 4.6 out of 5 - more than 30,500 global ratingsIn order to tell you how great this product is, I feel I need to explain what I was experiencing before it. I had been struggling with fatigue for about a month. Even if I got enough hours of sleep at night, I still felt so exhausted!
Well I’ve been taking this supplement for a few weeks now and I felt the impact almost immediately. I have so much more energy in which I don’t even feel I need to nap on the weekends. I’ve been telling others about this supplement because of how awesome it is. I by A LOT from amazon and rarely write reviews so I just hope this goes to show you how much I love this product.
Our extra strength formula contains all the essential B Vitamins in just one capsule. If you'd rather take your B Vitamins (like B 12 & 6) together in one convenient capsule, look no further! Divine Bounty offers one of the most potent Vitamin B-Complex formulas available.
Our formula is made up of only pure ingredients with no harmful additives. Simply the full B-Complex plus the combo of Inositol and Choline, two naturally occurring close cousins to the B Vitamin family. Our capsules are non GMO, soy free, gluten free and have no preservatives, stearates, silicone dioxide or artificial ingredients. A pure, clean formula.
Ingredients
100mg Thiamin (Vitamin B1), 100mg Riboflavin (Vitamin B2), 20mg Niacin (Vitamin B3), 30mg Vitamin B6 (as pyridoxine HCl), 680mcg Folic Acid (Vitamin B9), 100 mcg Vitamin B12 (as cyanocobalamin), 100mcg Biotin (as d-biotin), 100mg Pantothenic Acid (Vitamin B5), 100mg Inositol, 20mg Choline.
In order to tell you how great this product is, I feel I need to explain what I was experiencing before it. I had been struggling with fatigue for about a month. Even if I got enough hours of sleep at night, I still felt so exhausted!
Well I’ve been taking this supplement for a few weeks now and I felt the impact almost immediately. I have so much more energy in which I don’t even feel I need to nap on the weekends. I’ve been telling others about this supplement because of how awesome it is. I by A LOT from amazon and rarely write reviews so I just hope this goes to show you how much I love this product.
2. NOW Supplements, Vitamin B100 Capsule
BUY ON AMAZON
NOW B-100 Caps provide a full complement of B-vitamins plus choline and inositol. Also includes 400 mcg folic acid. NOW Foods supplements are made in North America, with ingredients sourced from around the world. Now supplements are GMP Quality Assured.
- Kosher
- Contains Gelatin
- Non-GMO, Corn Free, Dairy Free, Egg Free, Made without Gluten, Soy Free.
IngredientsThiamin (from Thiamin HCl) (Vitamin B-1), Riboflavin (Vitamin B-2), Niacin (Vitamin B-3) (as Niacinamide), Vitamin B-6 (from Pyridoxine HCl), Folate (as Folic Acid), Vitamin B-12 (as Cyanocobalamin), Biotin, Pantothenic Acid (from Calcium Pantothenate), Choline (from Choline Bitartrate), Inositol, PABA. Other Ingredients: Cellulose (capsule), Cellulose Powder, Magnesium Stearate (vegetable source) and Silica.
Not manufactured with wheat, gluten, soy, milk, egg, fish, shellfish or tree nut ingredients. Produced in a GMP facility that processes other ingredients containing these allergens.
Ratings: 4.8 out of 5 - more than 4,900 global ratingsVitamin B is essential to our health and most of us don't get what we need in our food. B complex it is good for cell growth, immune system, eases stress and there are a multitude of other benefits..check on line. I like NOW products and trust that I am getting what is printed on label. I have been taking this particular vitamin for a couple of years and know it is doing my body & mind good.
NOW B-100 Caps provide a full complement of B-vitamins plus choline and inositol. Also includes 400 mcg folic acid. NOW Foods supplements are made in North America, with ingredients sourced from around the world. Now supplements are GMP Quality Assured.
- Kosher
- Contains Gelatin
- Non-GMO, Corn Free, Dairy Free, Egg Free, Made without Gluten, Soy Free.
Ingredients
Thiamin (from Thiamin HCl) (Vitamin B-1), Riboflavin (Vitamin B-2), Niacin (Vitamin B-3) (as Niacinamide), Vitamin B-6 (from Pyridoxine HCl), Folate (as Folic Acid), Vitamin B-12 (as Cyanocobalamin), Biotin, Pantothenic Acid (from Calcium Pantothenate), Choline (from Choline Bitartrate), Inositol, PABA. Other Ingredients: Cellulose (capsule), Cellulose Powder, Magnesium Stearate (vegetable source) and Silica.
Not manufactured with wheat, gluten, soy, milk, egg, fish, shellfish or tree nut ingredients. Produced in a GMP facility that processes other ingredients containing these allergens.
Vitamin B is essential to our health and most of us don't get what we need in our food. B complex it is good for cell growth, immune system, eases stress and there are a multitude of other benefits..check on line. I like NOW products and trust that I am getting what is printed on label. I have been taking this particular vitamin for a couple of years and know it is doing my body & mind good.
3. Pure Encapsulations Vitamin B Complex Liquid (Without B7 -Biotin and B9 - Folic Acid)
B vitamins play a role in the conversion of carbohydrates into energy and in the metabolism and protein.* Supports proper functioning of the nervous system and healthy nerve cells.* Support memory, a positive outlook, other neurological factors, psychological health.*
Pure Encapsulations products are manufactured in Sudbury, MA, USA. Pure Encapsulations products are FREE FROM wheat, eggs, tree nuts & peanuts, gluten, artificial colors, flavors & sweeteners, coatings and shellacs, GMOs, and unnecessary binders, fillers & preservatives.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food & Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
Ingredients
Ingredients
Thiamin (B1), Riboflavin (activated B2), Niacin (formulated with niacinamide), Vitamin B6 (as pyridoxine HCI), Vitamin B12 (formulated with methylcobalamin), Pantothenic acid (B5). Purified water, natural vegetable glycerin, apple juice concentrate, strawberry juice concentrate, natural lemonade and orange flavors, citric acid, xanthan gum, potassium sorbate, purified stevia leaf extract.
Ratings: 4.6 out of 5 - more than 560 global ratings
This is the best tasting liquid B I have ever found. It barely has any taste and what I like is that they left out folic acid since I have to take a separate folic acid in the methylated form. This way I am not getting more than I need and do not over-methylate. For those who have had genetic testing to see if you are deficient in the gene that uses folic acid, you know you have to take the methylated form and the right amount so for me, it is perfect!
Best Vitamin B12 Supplement
4. Natrol Vitamin B-12 5000mcg
Vitamin B-12 is one of the most important elements that helps develop strong red blood cells, that are responsible for carrying oxygen throughout the body, but also collect carbon dioxide to be exhaled through the lungs. Fast Dissolving 5000mcg B-12 tablets in Natrol B-12 delivers support for healthy blood cells and contributes to the overall health of the nervous system.
Natrol Vitamin B-12 is easy to take without water and has a great tasting strawberry flavor that can be taken anytime and anywhere. These tablets are all-naturally sweetened and flavored as well as 100% vegetarian. Natrol Fast Dissolve tablets include rapid dissolving technology that dissolve 30 times faster than other pills.
IngredientsVitamin B-12, Xylitol, Cellulose Gum, PVP, Natural Strawberry Flavor, Beet Root Powder, Malic Acid, Silica, Stearic Acid, Magnesium Stearate, Citric Acid, Modified Food Starch, Maltodextrin.
Ratings: 4.7 out of 5 - more than 16,600 global ratingsThese dissolve in your mouth and have a great fruit flavor. Since a Vitamin B-12 deficiency has been a problem for me in the past, I purchased these to boost my levels. When I went back to my doctor several months later for more bloodwork, my B-12 level was back within the normal range. That was enough for me as I had been well below normal for approximately 2 years.
Vitamin B-12 is one of the most important elements that helps develop strong red blood cells, that are responsible for carrying oxygen throughout the body, but also collect carbon dioxide to be exhaled through the lungs. Fast Dissolving 5000mcg B-12 tablets in Natrol B-12 delivers support for healthy blood cells and contributes to the overall health of the nervous system.
Natrol Vitamin B-12 is easy to take without water and has a great tasting strawberry flavor that can be taken anytime and anywhere. These tablets are all-naturally sweetened and flavored as well as 100% vegetarian. Natrol Fast Dissolve tablets include rapid dissolving technology that dissolve 30 times faster than other pills.
Ingredients
Vitamin B-12, Xylitol, Cellulose Gum, PVP, Natural Strawberry Flavor, Beet Root Powder, Malic Acid, Silica, Stearic Acid, Magnesium Stearate, Citric Acid, Modified Food Starch, Maltodextrin.
These dissolve in your mouth and have a great fruit flavor. Since a Vitamin B-12 deficiency has been a problem for me in the past, I purchased these to boost my levels. When I went back to my doctor several months later for more bloodwork, my B-12 level was back within the normal range. That was enough for me as I had been well below normal for approximately 2 years.
5. Vimergy USDA Organic B12 Liquid
This particular supplement has 2500 mcg or 2.5mg of vitamin B12 from Methylcobalamin and Adenosylcobalmin per serving which is perfect for those looking for a super vitamin with many benefits that lead you to overall better health.* And it has a delicious, naturally sweet flavor. This liquid B12 drops are USDA Organic, Non-GMO, Kosher, Vegan, and Paleo Friendly. There are also No fillers, no additives, no citric acid, no artificial or natural flavors.
IngredientsVitamin b12 (methylcobalamin and adenosylcobalamin). Other ingredients: organic glycerin (flax), purified water.
Ratings: 4.7 out of 5 - more than 2,800 global ratingsI suffer from fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome. I bought this because the medical medium recommended it. After about an hour of taking it I start to feel warm. This tells me it’s boosting my metabolism and it’s working.
One shot usually gives me the energy I need to get going, but on bad days and when I’m extremely tired I do 2 shots. Pair this with a couple coffee and you will be running around in no time!! As for the flavor, it’s not the greatest, but it’s tolerable. Don’t be a baby, it’s worth it to feel better. Simply rinse out your mouth after a dose!!
This particular supplement has 2500 mcg or 2.5mg of vitamin B12 from Methylcobalamin and Adenosylcobalmin per serving which is perfect for those looking for a super vitamin with many benefits that lead you to overall better health.* And it has a delicious, naturally sweet flavor. This liquid B12 drops are USDA Organic, Non-GMO, Kosher, Vegan, and Paleo Friendly. There are also No fillers, no additives, no citric acid, no artificial or natural flavors.
Ingredients
Vitamin b12 (methylcobalamin and adenosylcobalamin). Other ingredients: organic glycerin (flax), purified water.
I suffer from fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome. I bought this because the medical medium recommended it. After about an hour of taking it I start to feel warm. This tells me it’s boosting my metabolism and it’s working.
One shot usually gives me the energy I need to get going, but on bad days and when I’m extremely tired I do 2 shots. Pair this with a couple coffee and you will be running around in no time!! As for the flavor, it’s not the greatest, but it’s tolerable. Don’t be a baby, it’s worth it to feel better. Simply rinse out your mouth after a dose!!
6. EZ Melts Dissolvable Vitamin B 12 Supplements
This supplement contains a bioactive form of B-12 vitamin vegan vitamin: methylcobalamin. To ensure effective nervous system support is delivered with every dose.* These tablets are also made with no artificial colors, flavors, or sweeteners.
These vegan vitamin B12 supplements are non-GMO with no pesky irritants like gluten or dairy. Every ingredient is globally sourced from US-based suppliers we are on a first-name basis with. So you can be confident in consistent quality.
IngredientsActive ingredients: Vitamin B12 (as Methylcobalamin) - 2,500 mcg Other ingredients: mannitol, modified cellulose, natural flavor and color, plant-based magnesium stearate, citric acid, and monk fruit extract
Ratings: 4.7 out of 5 - more than 10,500 global ratingsI've done a ton of research and found these to be the best B12 you can get. They provide the right amount of B12, are easy to dissolve, and priced just right as well. These are a must if you don't eat a lot of meat and need to supplement your B12.
This supplement contains a bioactive form of B-12 vitamin vegan vitamin: methylcobalamin. To ensure effective nervous system support is delivered with every dose.* These tablets are also made with no artificial colors, flavors, or sweeteners.
These vegan vitamin B12 supplements are non-GMO with no pesky irritants like gluten or dairy. Every ingredient is globally sourced from US-based suppliers we are on a first-name basis with. So you can be confident in consistent quality.
Ingredients
Active ingredients: Vitamin B12 (as Methylcobalamin) - 2,500 mcg Other ingredients: mannitol, modified cellulose, natural flavor and color, plant-based magnesium stearate, citric acid, and monk fruit extract
I've done a ton of research and found these to be the best B12 you can get. They provide the right amount of B12, are easy to dissolve, and priced just right as well. These are a must if you don't eat a lot of meat and need to supplement your B12.
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