How to Raise Your Vitamin B12 Levels Fast

Introduction

Vitamin B12 is an essential nutrient that helps keep your body functioning properly. It helps with the formation of red blood cells, DNA production, neurological function, and more. If you have low levels of B12, you may experience a range of symptoms, such as fatigue, pale skin, weakness, and tingling sensations in your hands and feet.

Increase Intake of Foods Rich in Vitamin B12

The best way to raise your B12 levels is to increase your intake of foods that are high in the vitamin. There are plenty of animal products that are good sources of B12, such as eggs, fish, meat, and dairy products. For those who don’t eat animal products, there are still plenty of plant-based sources of B12, such as fortified breakfast cereals, nutritional yeast, and some types of seaweed.

Take a Vitamin B12 Supplement

If you’re unable to get enough B12 from your diet, taking a supplement is another option. There are several types of B12 supplements on the market, including tablets, capsules, liquids, and sprays. The recommended dosage varies depending on your age and other factors, so it’s important to talk to your doctor before starting any supplement.

Eat More Liver and Shellfish

Liver and shellfish are two of the best sources of B12, so eating them regularly can help raise your levels quickly. Liver is especially high in B12, with just 3 ounces providing over 100 percent of your daily needs. Shellfish is also a good source, with mussels and clams offering the highest amounts. Both liver and shellfish are also packed with other nutrients, such as iron, zinc, and selenium.

Include Fortified Foods in Your Diet

Fortified foods are another great way to get more B12 in your diet. Many breakfast cereals, non-dairy milks, and energy bars are fortified with B12, so look for these when shopping. Other fortified foods include some types of bread, pasta, and plant-based burgers. Be sure to check the labels to make sure the product is fortified with B12.

Try an Intrinsic Factor Supplement

If you have difficulty absorbing B12 due to digestive issues, taking an intrinsic factor supplement may help. Intrinsic factor is a protein produced in the stomach that helps absorb B12. Taking a supplement that contains intrinsic factor can help increase absorption of B12, allowing you to get more of the vitamin into your system.

Consider Taking Sublingual B12

Sublingual B12 is a form of B12 that is placed under the tongue and absorbed directly into the bloodstream. This method bypasses the digestive system, so it’s a good option for people who have trouble absorbing B12 through their digestive tract. Taking sublingual B12 is easy and can be done at home. Just place the tablet or capsule under your tongue and wait for it to dissolve.

Ask Your Doctor About Injections

For some people, injections may be the best way to raise their B12 levels quickly. Injections are given directly into the muscle and are very effective at increasing B12 levels in the body. However, they should only be used under the supervision of a doctor because they can cause side effects, such as pain and swelling at the injection site.

Conclusion

Raising your B12 levels quickly is possible if you take the right steps. Eating foods that are high in B12, taking a supplement, and trying other methods, such as sublingual B12 or injections, can all help boost your B12 levels. Be sure to talk to your doctor before starting any supplement or treatment to ensure it’s safe for you.