In the supplement world, vitamin B12 is promoted as an energy booster. (1) While it plays a role in energy production, like all B vitamins, a B12 supplement may not give you the energy kick you expect. That being said, there’s a definite need for B12 supplements for people at risk of deficiency, like those who follow a meatless diet or have trouble absorbing B12 from food. (1) Plus, the form of B12 used in supplements, collectively called cobalamin, is easier to absorb because it’s not bound to a protein like the B12 in food. (1,2)
There’s a lot to know about vitamin B12 supplements, and our team of health and nutrition experts wants you to make an informed decision before you buy. So, we evaluated over ten brands of B12 vitamins, looking at many factors, including effectiveness, dose, safety, and price. We also considered personal needs and reasons for supplementation to find the best options available. Here are our top six choices for vitamin B12 supplements.
Best B12 supplement overall
Nutricost Vitamin B12 provides 5,000 micrograms (mcg) of methylcobalamin, a natural form of B12. The high-dose B12 supplement can treat and prevent a B12 deficiency. Nutricost Vitamin B12 is also affordable, suitable for people following a vegetarian diet, and third-party tested for quality and potency.
Medical disclaimer: This article is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for medical advice. For health advice, contact a licensed healthcare provider.
Our picks for the best B12 supplement
- Best B12 supplement overall: Nutricost Vitamin B12
- Best multivitamin with vitamin B12: Ritual Essential for Men Multivitamin 18+ and Ritual Essential for Women Multivitamin 18+
- Best B12 supplement for vegans: Future Kind Vegan B12 Methylcobalamin Chewable
- Best B12 supplement for absorption: Nature Made Vitamin B12 Fast Dissolve Tablets
- Best gummy B12 supplement: Elm & Rye Vitamin B12 Gummies
- Best organic B12 supplement: Cymbiotika Liposomal Vitamin B12 + B6
Compare B12 Supplements
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| Nutricost Vitamin B12 | Ritual Multivitamins | Future Kind Vegan B12 Methylcobalamin Chewable | Nature Made Vitamin B12 Fast Dissolve Tablets | Elm & Rye Vitamin B12 Gummies | Cymbiotika Liposomal Vitamin B12 + B6 | |
| Rating | ||||||
| Form | Capsule | Capsule | Chewable tablet | Sublingual tablet | Gummy | Spray |
| Ingredients | Vitamin B12 | Vitamin B12, Omega 3 DHA, Vitamin D, Vitamin E, Vitamin K2, Boron, Folate, Magnesium | Vitamin B12 | Vitamin B12 | Vitamin B12 | Vitamin B6, Vitamin B12, Folate |
| Dosage | One capsule | Two capsules | One chewable | One tablet | One gummy | 12 pumps daily |
Best overall B12 supplement: Nutricost Vitamin B12
Key product features
What you should know
Nutricost Vitamin B12 balances quality with affordability, providing a high dose of B12 that meets more than 200,000% of the daily value to prevent and treat nutrient deficiencies.
- The B12 supplement contains methylcobalamin, an active form of vitamin B12 easily absorbed by the body. (1)
- At $0.10 per serving, Nutricost’s vitamin B12 supplement is priced well below the market average price of $0.50 per serving.
- The high-dose vitamin B12 supplement is a good choice for people at risk of B12 deficiency from malabsorption, particularly following weight loss surgery. (1,3)
- Nutricost is a well-respected brand, and their vitamin B12 supplement is made in a good manufacturing practices (GMP) facility and third-party tested for quality.
Why we like Nutricost Vitamin B12 as best overall
Providing a megadose of vitamin B12 at an affordable price, Nutricost’s vitamin B12 stands out as our top pick. With one capsule, you get 5,000 micrograms of B12, meeting more than 200,000% of the daily value. (1) The recommended dietary allowance for B12 is 2.4 mcg. (1)
The body can only absorb so much B12, whether from food or a supplement, based on the amount of intrinsic factor available, a binding agent that carries B12 from the digestive tract into the blood. (1)
According to the Office of Dietary Supplements (ODS), the body absorbs about 2% of a 500 mcg dose of B12 and 1.3% of a 1,000 mcg dose. (1) Based on this information, you may absorb less than 1% of the 5,000-mcg dose in the Nutricost supplement. Not everyone needs such a high dose of B12; however, people with vitamin B12 deficiency may benefit from this higher dose to normalize blood levels. (2)
If you take medications like proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) for acid reflux or metformin for type 2 diabetes, you might also benefit from a higher dose of B12 for better absorption. (1) High doses of B12 also improve blood levels of B12 in people who don’t make enough of this vitamin following gastrointestinal surgery. (1,3)
Because Nutricost Vitamin B12 has such a high dose, you may not need to take the supplement every day, which may make it more appealing if you don’t like to take pills or forget to take your supplements daily. A 2019 study published in Clinical Nutrition found that B12-deficient vegans and vegetarians restored B12 levels by taking either 350 mcg or 2,000 mcg of vitamin B12 once a week. (4)
All that said, there’s no upper tolerable limit (UL) for vitamin B12. (1) This means you can’t overdose on B12—the body eliminates whatever it doesn’t need. (1) So you can take 5,000 mcg of B12 every day without side effects. However, you should talk to your doctor about supplementing with vitamin B12 to get personalized guidance on a dose, especially when treating or preventing a deficiency.
Nutricost uses methylcobalamin as a source of B12, a metabolically active form of B12 used in dietary supplements. (1) Supplement makers promote methylcobalamin as a form of B12 that’s easier to absorb and utilize, but research shows no difference in how the body absorbs or uses B12 no matter the form it comes in. (5)
One of the reasons we give Nutricost Vitamin B12 such high marks is because it’s the least expensive supplement on our list. It costs $0.10 per serving, well below the average market price. And, you get 240 capsules in every bottle. If you take one capsule twice a week, a bottle could last more than two years. Nevertheless, supplements have a shelf-life, losing potency after two years. (6)
Nutricost Vitamin B12 marketing emphasizes the powerful energy boost the supplement provides. There is no concrete evidence that taking B12 supplements boosts energy levels unless you are deficient in B12. (1) Lack of vitamin B12 is serious, affecting nearly 4% of adults in the United States, causing anemia that makes you feel physically and mentally exhausted. (1) Unless you’re deficient, taking a megadose of vitamin B12 won’t recharge your battery.
What customers are saying
Nutricost has more than 340 mostly positive reviews on Amazon. Customers like the supplement’s value and health benefits, and find it easy to take. However, not everyone feels a boost in energy, as claimed.
Verified Amazon customer Kriss writes, “Great supplement, works well and no side effects. I take it [on an] empty stomach every morning.”
Steve W. is another verified Amazon buyer who says Nutricost vitamin B12 is a game changer.
“Nutricost Vitamin B12 has become an integral part of my daily routine, and the results have been nothing short of remarkable. The energy boost I’ve experienced is so significant that I haven’t needed a cup of coffee since I started taking these supplements.”
Steve W., Amazon
Not everyone felt an energy boost after taking this vitamin B12 supplement. Verified buyer Lina writes, “I didn’t feel anything.”
Specs
| Form | Capsule |
| Dosage | One capsule |
| Key Ingredients | Vitamin B12 (methylcobalamin) |
| Price per serving | $0.10 |
| Number of servings | 120 or 240 |
| Amount of B12 | 5,000 mcg (also offered in 1,000 mcg and 2,000 mcg) |
| Rating | 4.6 |
Best multivitamin with B12: Ritual Essential for Men Multivitamin 18+ and Ritual Essential for Women Multivitamin 18+
Key product features
What you should know
Ritual Multivitamins offer high-quality formulas designed to fill nutrient gaps. One capsule provides 8-16 micrograms of vitamin B12, meeting 333-667% of the daily value.
- Our product testers found the supplements easy to swallow and were a bit surprised that it had a hint of flavor— minty in one batch and orangey in another.
- At $1.10 per serving, Ritual Multivitamins cost more than the average market price for vitamin B12 supplements. But as a multivitamin with B12, it’s a two-in-one supplement so you don’t need to buy a separate B12 supplement, potentially saving you money.
- Ritual Multivitamins are good supplements for people following a vegan or vegetarian diet who are concerned about not getting enough essential nutrients like vitamin B12 and want a well-rounded supplement to fill in the gaps.
- Ritual has multivitamins for men and women ages 18+ and 50+, with nutrient formulations specific to each sex and age group. The men’s and women’s 18+ formulas have 8 mcg of B12, while the 50+ formula has 16 mcg of B12.
- All ingredients in Ritual Multivitamins are 100% traceable.
Why we like Ritual Multivitamins as best multivitamin with vitamin B12
Ritual sets itself apart from other multivitamins with a formula specifically designed to fill common nutrient gaps, like vitamin B12, rather than provide a broad spectrum of nutrients. Further, the supplement maker has separate multivitamins for women and men 18 and older and 50 and older, providing sex- and age-specific nutrition.
Ritual’s multivitamin formulas for men and women 18+ have 8 micrograms of vitamin B12 as methylcobalamin, meeting 333% of the daily value. The formula for adults 50 and over has 16 mcg of vitamin B12, meeting 667% of the daily value. Though not as high as other B12 supplements, the amount in Ritual’s multivitamin is enough to meet needs and prevent a deficiency.
Older adults are at greater risk of vitamin B12 deficiency because of changes in digestion. As you age, you make less intrinsic factor and hydrochloric acid that helps separate vitamin B12 from the protein in food, so you absorb less vitamin B12. (1) Vitamin B12 deficiency affects cognitive function. It can look like early-stage dementia, causing memory loss and confusion. (1) Older adults should have their B12 levels checked regularly since vitamin supplements can reverse symptoms. (7)
We also like Ritual because it’s vegan. Meat, dairy, poultry, and seafood are the main food sources of vitamin B12, so many vegans must supplement with B12 to prevent a deficiency. (1) The multivitamin also supplies other nutrients of concern for people following a plant-based diet, like vitamin D and omega-3 DHA. (8)
Our product testers tried the Essential for Women 18+ and the Essential for Men 50+ multivitamins. They didn’t notice any changes in energy or sense of well-being while taking the supplements. Though not bothered by the supplements’ taste, one of our product testers found the minty and orange flavoring unnecessary. One of the biggest annoyances reported by our product testers was that they found the supplement label difficult to read.
Ritual Multivitamins are third-party tested and gluten-free. However, they’re not complete multivitamins and don’t provide all the essential nutrients the body needs to function. It’s specifically designed to fill in the gaps, not serve as a source for every essential vitamin and mineral.
Visit our full guide on the best multivitamins or check out our full Ritual review for more information.
What customers are saying
More than 2,700 Amazon customers have reviewed Ritual Multivitamins. They like the quality of the supplements and the nutrition, but some complain about the taste and smell.
“I love these vitamins so much!! My skin looks great and I love the minty taste!!”
Angelas, Amazon
Emily S. is another verified Amazon buyer who says Ritual is a great vitamin for people new to taking supplements. “Love this vitamin! I feel like this gives me everything I need. I don’t mind the minty taste!”
Hannah is an Amazon customer who didn’t like the taste or smell, saying, “I could not use this for more than three days. I am super sensitive to smells and just opening the bottle I was already gagging before even attempting to take the capsules. The mint taste lingers and makes me sick to my stomach and I am also burping it up all day.”
Specs
| Form | Capsules |
| Dosage | Two capsules |
| Key Ingredients | Vitamins B12 (methylcobalamin), D, and E, folate, iron (in women’s), omega-3 DHA |
| Price per serving | $1.10 |
| Number of servings | 30 |
| Amount of B12 | 8-16 mcg |
| Rating | 4.1 |
Best B12 supplement for vegans: Future Kind Vegan B12 Methylcobalamin Chewable
Key product features
What you should know
Future Kind’s Vegan B12 Methylcobalamin Chewable is a berry-flavored chewable supplement that provides 1,000 micrograms of B12.
- This vegan-friendly supplement company is also environmentally aware, using eco-friendly packaging and carbon-neutral shipping.
- At $0.50 per serving, the vegan chewable B12 supplement falls around the average price point for B12 supplements.
- Future Kind’s vegan B12 supplement is sweetened with sorbitol and mannitol, two sugar alcohols that may cause gastrointestinal problems like gas, bloating, or diarrhea. (15)
- This may be a good B12 supplement for those who loathe taking pills and would rather chew a sweetened tablet to get essential nutrients.
Why we like Future Kind Vegan B12 Methylcobalamin Chewable as best vegan
For vegans who can’t swallow pills, Future Kind’s B12 chewable may be a good choice. This may also be a great option for adolescents who need B12 supplementation but may not be able to swallow pills. B12 has been shown to lower risk of depression in children and adolescents. (16)
Future Kind’s B12 supplement supplies 1,000 micrograms of B12, meeting 42,667% of the daily value. Supplements such as this one are very effective at preventing or treating vitamin B12 deficiencies, especially for vegans who don’t eat foods with added vitamin B12, like breakfast cereal or nutritional yeast—a cheesy-flavored powder that has 8-24 micrograms of B12 per 1/4 cup. (1,17)
The supplement is also third-party tested for safety and potency, and Future Kind shares the Certificate of Analysis (COA) on the supplement’s webpage as part of their campaign for transparency. (14)
The supplement is wheat-free, gluten-free, and dairy-free, but isn’t suitable for people with a soy allergy. Furthermore, the supplement is made in a facility that processes common food allergens—like wheat, milk, tree nuts, peanuts, fish, shellfish, eggs—so Future Kind can’t guarantee that it is 100% safe for people with severe food allergies.
Another positive for Future Kind’s B12 chewable is its price of $0.50 per serving. Though priced higher than many of the B12 supplements on our list, it’s priced right at the average market price. Given the effort Future Kind puts into its supplements, we think its B12 chewable vitamin is a good value.
One of the major drawbacks of the vegan supplement is that it’s sweetened with the non-calorie sugar alcohols sorbitol and mannitol. Sugar alcohols can cause stomach problems like pain, bloating, or diarrhea in some. (15) You may not have any issues taking one chewable vitamin but may experience gastrointestinal distress if taking three daily, as recommended by Future Kind. Plus, there’s no need to take more than one dose daily since this supplement provides adequate vitamin B12 in one serving.
Another thing to consider before adding the vegan B12 supplement to your cart is that there are no third-party customer reviews, making it difficult to get unbiased customer feedback on taste, tolerance, and results.
Specs
| Form | Chewable tablet |
| Dosage | One to three tablets a day |
| Key Ingredients | Vitamin B12 (methylcobalamin) |
| Price per serving | $0.50 |
| Number of servings | 30 |
| Amount of B12 | 1,000 mcg (per tablet) |
| Rating | 4.3 |
Best B12 supplement for absorption: Nature Made Vitamin B12 Fast Dissolve Tablets
Key product features
What you should know
Nature Made Vitamin B12 Fast Dissolve Tablets are sublingual tablets that dissolve in the mouth under the tongue, for quick and easy absorption.
- Sublingual vitamin B12 supplements like Nature Made’s fast-dissolving tablets work just as well as intramuscular (IM) B12 injections at boosting B12 blood levels. (18)
- Each Nature Made B12 tablet costs $0.20, priced below the average market price, and at a significant savings compared to a B12 shot, which can cost about $35 per shot.
- This is a good supplement for older adults who need to take vitamin B12 due to gastrointestinal conditions that affect B12 absorption, like a decrease in production of stomach acid or intrinsic factor. (1)
Why we like Nature Made Vitamin B12 Fast Dissolvable Tablets as best for absorption
Intramuscular injections (IM) are the go-to treatment for vitamin B12 deficiency, but they’re not your only option. (1) Nature Made Vitamin B12 Fast Dissolvable Tablets can help meet B12 needs without the fear and pain of a needle. Sublingual supplements can also be extremely useful for the younger population, and have shown benefits for all ages. (19,20)
B12 is often given as an injection because it’s the most reliable way to ensure the body gets the right amount. (1) When obtained from food or a supplement, B12 must bind to an intrinsic factor for absorption in the digestive tract, but the gut produces a limited amount. Getting the essential nutrient as an injection eliminates this potential barrier. (1)
However, taking high doses of B12—such as 1,000-2,000 micrograms—in oral form works too. (1) A 2019 retrospective study published in Drug Delivery and Translational Research found that sublingual B12 was as effective as injections at improving blood B12 levels. (18)
Nature Made B12 Fast Dissolve Tablets have 1,000 mcg of B12 each. Research indicates 1% of B12 is absorbed in the mouth. (21) This data shows you get about 10 mcg of B12 from the tablets, meeting more than 400% of the daily value.
The instructions recommend taking one tablet daily with a meal, placing it under the tongue until it dissolves, and then swallowing.
While Nature Made contains no added sugar, it uses mannitol, a sugar alcohol that can cause unwanted gastrointestinal side effects, to sweeten the dissolvable tablet. (15) It’s also sweetened with sucralose, an artificial sweetener generally recognized as safe, but something to keep in mind if you have concerns about artificial sweeteners. (22) The supplement also contains natural and artificial cherry flavors.
Nature Made is a well-known supplement brand available at many retailers, making it easy to purchase. It’s also priced right at $0.20 per serving, costing less than the average market price for B12 supplements.
Ask your healthcare professional if taking a sublingual vitamin B12 is an option if you have a B12 deficiency, instead of getting B12 shots.
What customers are saying
More than 16,000 Amazon customers have reviewed Nature Made’s fast-dissolving vitamin B12 supplement. They say it dissolves quickly, tastes great, and is priced right. Other customers say the supplement is hard to swallow and they don’t feel any better after taking it.
“The cap for the bottle has a nice flip top that is easy to use. The vitamins are small and easy to place under my tongue. They do dissolve quite quickly. I am seeing positive results from use and my nutritionist has been happy.”
Richard P., Amazon
Another verified buyer on Amazon, with the username Henderbender, also likes Nature Made’s fast-dissolving B12. “This vitamin dissolves under your tongue, making it easy to swallow. I assume the vitamin B is of good quality. I’ve been taking it for several months, and it seems to be working fine.”
Gaetana is a verified Amazon customer who found the supplement hard to swallow and didn’t notice any improvements in health. “Not easy to swallow. Chalky. They smell sweet. I’m still tired and hoping they help with memory.”
Specs
| Form | Tablet |
| Dosage | One tablet |
| Key Ingredients | Vitamin B12 (cyanocobalamin) |
| Price per serving | $0.20 |
| Number of servings | 50 |
| Amount of B12 | 1,000 mcg |
| Rating | 4.6 |
Best gummy B12 supplement: Elm & Rye Vitamin B12 Gummies
Key product features
What you should know
Elm & Rye Vitamin B12 Gummies are a basic B12 supplement in an easy-to-take form. The supplement has a short list of ingredients and uses cyanocobalamin as its source of B12.
- Elm & Rye also offers a vitamin B12 supplement in capsules.
- At $1.50 per gummy, Elm & Rye’s B12 supplement is triple the average market price for B12.
- This is a good B12 supplement for people who can’t swallow pills and want a simple supplement without extra nutrients or many added ingredients.
Why we like Elm & Rye Vitamin B12 Gummies as best gummy
Elm & Rye Vitamin B12 Gummies may be an ideal option for people who can’t swallow pills and find chewable tablets or sublingual lozenges too chalky. Elm & Rye is dedicated to providing high-quality supplements with minimal ingredients.
Their B12 gummy uses cyanocobalamin as its source of B12, which is a synthetic form of B12 and the one most commonly found in supplements because it’s the most stable. (23) It’s FDA-approved and has been in use for several years. (24) Though many other B12 supplements on our list use methylcobalamin, a more natural form of B12, any form of B12 is readily absorbed by the body. (1,5)
The website lists other ingredients in the supplement, mostly additives that add bulk, like dicalcium phosphate, microcrystalline cellulose, and vegetable magnesium stearate. (24) No sweetener is listed on the website’s ingredients list, and there is no nutrition facts label on the B12 gummies or capsules. Our product reviewer contacted Elm & Rye for more specific nutrition information about the gummy supplement and was told it was all on the website.
Moreover, the website doesn’t list the B12 dose in each gummy. However, the company provides access to the third-party test results and Certificate of Analysis (COA) for the capsule version on its website. According to the COA, the supplement has 1,000 mcg of B12 per capsule. Though our product testing team found the lack of nutrition information on the website frustrating, they did like that Elm & Rye provided access to the third-party testing information. Lab results show that the capsule only contains B12 and no harmful substances.
Instructions say to take one gummy (or capsule) daily, leading us to assume that the gummy has the same amount of B12: 1,000 mcg.
At $1.50 per gummy, the Elm & Rye B12 supplement is one of the more expensive options on our list and three times more expensive than the average price for B12 supplements. The company offers a subscribe and save program that decreases the price by 25% ($1.12 per serving), and can send out a new shipment of supplements every 15, 30, 45, or 60 days.
Though we like that Elm & Rye offers a simple B12 gummy that’s easy to consume, we can’t fully evaluate the consumer experience since there aren’t any third-party customer reviews. The company is responsive to questions submitted through the website, taking less than a day to answer questions sent in by our reviewers.
Specs
| Form | Gummy |
| Dosage | One gummy |
| Key Ingredients | Vitamin B12 (cyanocobalamin) |
| Price per serving | $1.50 |
| Number of servings | 30 |
| Amount of B12 | 1,000 mcg |
| Rating | 3.9 |
Best organic B12 supplement: Cymbiotika Liposomal Vitamin B12 + B6
Key product features
What you should know
Cymbiotika Liposomal Vitamin B12 + B6 is an organic vitamin supplement that you spray directly into your mouth or onto a spoon to consume.
- Cymbiotika Liposomal Vitamin B12 + B6 uses a liposomal delivery system, encapsulating each nutrient in a cell-like membrane that purportedly improves absorption and nutrient availability. However, research fails to show liposomal delivery offers these claimed benefits. (25,26)
- Cymbiotika Liposomal Vitamin B12 + B6 is a convenient way to get B12, but it costs more than three times the average market price at $1.60 per serving.
- This is a good B12 supplement for busy professionals who want a quick, portable option they can take any time.
Why we like Cymbiotika Liposomal Vitamin B12 + B6 as best organic
Cymbiotika Liposomal Vitamin B12 + B6 contains a mix of organic B vitamins that may benefit your health, including B12, B6, and folate. On top of that, the supplement is in a liquid form that you spray into the mouth or onto a spoon, making it easy to take.
One serving—12 sprays—has 1,000 micrograms of B12, meeting more than 40,000% of the daily value, and 1 milligram of vitamin B6 provides 63% of the daily value. The spray B12 supplement also has 1,200 micrograms of folate, meeting 300% of the daily value. (13)
The amount of folate in Cymbiotika Liposomal Vitamin B12 + B6 is also enough to meet the needs of women of childbearing age. (13) It’s also in a form that’s easier to absorb in people who lack the enzyme that converts folate into its active form. (13)
This vitamin B12 supplement from Cymbiotika uses a liposomal delivery system to enhance absorption. It involves enclosing the nutrients in a cell membrane that protects them from enzymes in the digestive system for better absorption, making the nutrients more available to the cells in the body. (25) Current research does not support the claim that the liposomal delivery system improves blood B12 levels better than a tablet or chewable B12. (26) However, Cymbiotika still provides B12, B6, and folate in amounts that benefit health by restoring and preventing nutrient deficiencies.
The spray supplement is also suitable for vegans, and is sugar-free, gluten-free, and soy-free. The spray uses organic blueberry juice powder to add sweetness and flavor. However, not everyone likes the taste of the organic vitamin spray, and despite not having added sugar, some consumers say it’s too sweet.
We like that Cymbiotika Liposomal Vitamin B12 and B6 is third-party tested for quality and potency. The spray also makes it an easy and convenient supplement to take. However, to maintain potency, storing the supplement in a cool, dark place or the refrigerator after opening is recommended.
It’s also the most expensive supplement on our list, at $1.60 per serving, more than three times the average price. However, you can save 10% with Cymbiotika’s subscribe and save program. The price may be worth it if you have a hard time taking pills. However, you must count each spray to ensure you get the right dose.
What customers are saying
Most Amazon customers have very positive things to say about Cymbiotika’s organic vitamin B12 spray supplement. They like the quality of the ingredients and results, but some don’t like the taste or price.
“I have been taking this product for a week now, and I have noticed a huge improvement in my mood, energy, and overall well-being. I also LOVE that it contains Folate. It tastes good and is easy to use, and the pump is great and effective. It will be a forever staple for me.”
Nicole, Amazon
Another verified Amazon buyer who goes by LMN finds the supplement easy to use, but costly. “It’s in a well-designed bottle with a pump, which makes it easy to measure and administer orally. It’s fresh and tastes great. It’s not cheap, but the bottle lasts long, and because of the smart delivery pump, none of the product gets spilled or wasted.”
Jason P. is a verified Amazon customer who found the supplement too sweet, saying, “It tastes pretty sweet yet contains no added sugar. I got a pretty bad breakout from taking this for a week. I wish that they carried this on a lower dose.”
Specs
| Form | Liquid spray |
| Dosage | 12 pumps |
| Key Ingredients | Vitamin B12 (methylcobalamin, hydroxocobalamin chloride, adenosylcobalamin), vitamin B6, Methylfolate |
| Price per serving | $1.60 |
| Number of servings | 30 |
| Amount of B12 | 1,000 mcg |
| Rating | 4.1 |
How we test supplements
Finding the right B12 supplement to fit individual needs can make a huge difference in overall health and well-being. Recognizing that individuals have different requirements and goals regarding supplements, we provide reviews that cover a wide range of concerns and needs. We do a deep dive into our choices, providing as much detail as possible, so you can make an informed decision.
Learn more about our supplement testing methodology here.
Efficacy—40%
Efficacy means the effectiveness of the product in achieving its claims and the evidence that supports those claims. Each supplement can help consumers achieve specific health benefits. We examine whether a supplement delivers on its promised benefits.
Here’s what we look for:
- Clinical evidence
- Calories per serving
- Dose
- Mixability
Safety and side effects—35%
When choosing a supplement, you have to assess health risks, adverse effects, and safety profiles. We ensure the safety of these products through first-hand testing. To do this, we evaluate:
- Reported side effects
- Current research
- Third-party testing
- Manufacturer accreditation
- Artificial sweeteners
- Added ingredients like caffeine
Value—20%
We know that value doesn’t just mean price—it also includes the quality you get for the price. Our team factors in a cost analysis to determine the true worth of a supplement in relation to its price. We then identify products that offer a solid return on investment:
Our factors in this rating include:
- Price per serving
- Quality standards
- Heavy metal testing
Customer experience—5%
A customer’s experience with a company directly impacts satisfaction, loyalty, and the likelihood of repeat purchases. That’s why our team includes it in our testing process.
Our factors in this rating include:
- Ease of purchase
- Shipping and returns
- Customer support
- Subscription service
- 100% satisfaction guarantee
- Multiple forms
What is vitamin B12?
Vitamin B12 is one of the water-soluble B vitamins. It’s needed to make DNA, keep blood cells healthy, and support nerve function. (1)
B12 is an essential vitamin and must come from an outside source, meaning it isn’t produced by the body. Vitamin B12 is naturally found in animal and dairy products like meat, poultry, fish, milk, cheese, and eggs. (1) It isn’t naturally found in plant foods except for nutritional yeast; but some foods, such as cereal and plant milk, are fortified with vitamin B12. (1,17)
People who follow a vegan diet must supplement with vitamin B12 to prevent deficiency. (1)
In food, vitamin B12 is bound to a protein that releases the nutrient when it reaches the acidic contents of the stomach. It then combines with a substance called intrinsic factor in the small intestine for absorption. (1) These factors affect how much B12 the body absorbs and are a common cause of B12 deficiencies.
Benefits of taking vitamin B12 supplements
Most people consume an adequate amount of vitamin B12 from food. (1) However, not getting enough vitamin B12 due to poor absorption or not eating enough vitamin B12-rich foods may lead to health problems. Unlike most B vitamins, the body stores some B12, up to 5,000 micrograms, which can hide a deficiency. (1)
The potential benefits of taking vitamin B12 supplements include:
Prevents anemia
Vitamin B12 affects production of red blood cells. When you don’t get enough vitamin B12, it can cause the body to develop abnormally large and immature red blood cells, a condition called megaloblastic anemia. (1) People who develop this type of anemia from lack of intrinsic factor have what’s called pernicious anemia. (1)
Low red blood cell count affects the delivery of oxygen-rich blood throughout your body, affecting every cell, tissue, and organ in your body. It also makes you feel tired and susceptible to illness. (1)
Supplementing with vitamin B12 can treat and prevent megaloblastic anemia. (1) Research has shown that supplementing with B12 at around 1000 mcg a week can help those with a B12 deficiency that’s creating anemia and alleviate the deficiency after four weeks, and with continued monthly dosing. (27)
Keeps nerve cells healthy
Vitamin B12 deficiency affects neurological function and may cause numbness or tingling sensation in the hands and feet. A deficiency may lead to permanent neurological damage, affecting brain and nerve function if not treated. (1)
A B12 supplement helps keep nerve cells healthy, preventing neurological problems in people with nutrient deficiencies. (28)
Reduces risk of birth defects
Adequate intake of vitamin B12 is critical during pregnancy. Vitamin B12 is needed for the development of the fetal nervous system. Inadequate intake may increase the risk of neural tube defects. (29) There’s also concern that poor intake of vitamin B12 during pregnancy may lead to premature birth. (29)
Supplementing with B12 during pregnancy may reduce risk of birth defects and premature birth.
Potential side effects of taking vitamin B12 supplements
Vitamin B12 is a water-soluble vitamin, meaning the body doesn’t store excess amounts. (1) The Food and Nutrition Board (FNB) hasn’t established an upper limit (UL) for B12 toxicity. (1) This means vitamin B12 supplements are safe for most people and not likely to cause side effects even when taken in high doses.
However, B12 supplements may interact with some medications. For example, medications that affect stomach acidity, like proton pump inhibitors used to treat reflux, may inhibit the absorption of vitamin B12 from food. (1) Decreasing the acidity of the stomach makes it harder to separate the B12 from the protein it’s bound to.
However, this may not be a problem if you’re supplementing with B12. B12 supplements are provided in a form that’s easier to digest and absorb than the type found in food. (1)
Metformin, a medication that helps manage blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes, may inhibit absorption of vitamin B12, whether from food or supplements. (1)
FAQs
What is the best form of vitamin B12 to take?
No single form of vitamin B12 is the best to take. Cyanocobalamin is the most common form of B12 used in supplements. (1) Other forms of B12 found in supplements include adenosylcobalamin, methylcobalamin, and hydroxocobalamin. However, there’s no evidence that one form absorbs or works better than another. (1)
Which brand is the best for vitamin B12?
The best brand of vitamin B12 supplement depends on your needs. The best choice is the one that provides the right amount of B12 in a form you can take and absorb that fits your budget. Talk to your doctor or a registered dietitian for individualized guidance, or when starting any new supplement.
What is the safest amount of B12 to take daily?
Vitamin B12 is a water-soluble vitamin with no upper limit for toxicity. Most B12 supplements supply anywhere from 5 micrograms to 1,000 micrograms. However, your body may not absorb more B12 by taking a higher dose. The body can only absorb 2% of a 500-microgram dose and 1.3% of a 1,000-microgram dose. (1)
How long does it take for vitamin B12 to start working?
When vitamin B12 starts working depends on the reason you need supplementation. You may not notice any changes if you’re not deficient. However, it can take several months for severe vitamin B12 symptoms to improve after starting supplementation. (30)
Our experts
Victoria Burgess, Ph.D., CSCS, CISSN
Victoria uses her extensive nutrition and performance knowledge every day. She has a Ph.D. in Health and Human Performance from Concordia University Chicago and holds her NSCA CSCS and Certified Sports Nutritionist (CISSN). She’s an adjunct professor in the Human Performance and Nutrition department at Concordia University Chicago and Parker University, where she teaches undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral level courses. She also sits on the advisory board for both the International Society of Sports Nutrition and the National Advisory Council of the First Responder Institute.
Joana Neziri, M.S., NASM-CPT
Joana is a writer, editor, and content strategist focusing on nutrition, fitness, and all things health. After earning a master’s degree in business from the University of North Florida, she began a career in research and digital marketing.
Jessica Coulon
Jessica is a contributing editor and writer for Fortune Recommends™ who specializes in fitness, health, nutrition, and science content. Previously, she was an editor for Popular Mechanics and Bicycling, where she covered pro cycling news, wrote how-to guides, and tested all the latest and greatest bike gear. She was also a regular shoe tester and contributor for Runner’s World. You can often find her skiing or riding her mountain bike, and racing with the F1RE female enduro team.
Kelly Uhler
Kelly has a multifaceted background in elder care, health care, and copywriting. She has worked for organizations such as A Place For Mom and Homecare.com, which gave her the opportunity to work closely with families, providing reliable information to help them make informed decisions about their loved one’s health, safety, and quality of life.
Jill Corleone, RD
Fortune Recommends Nutrition Writer
About Author
Jill’s life has centered around nutrition and fitness for more than two decades. After earning her bachelor of science in nutrition at New York University in Manhattan, Jill went on to complete her internship at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey in Newark.
She spent the early part of her career working as a clinical dietitian with a focus on pediatric nutrition. She then transitioned into management. Jill began her career as a freelance writer in 2007 while working as a clinical nutrition manager in Florida. She became a full-time writer in 2010 after the birth of her first child.
Jill has written for numerous publications, including Verywellfit, Diabetes Self-Management, Huffington Post, Livestrong.com, and SFGate.