Sublingual Vitamin B12 Information
Vitamin B12 is an energy booster, a nervous system regulator and it enhances metabolism. It increases energy, improves sleep and helps to build muscles and bones. When Vitamin B12 is taken sublingually (under the tongue), it is easily and quickly absorbed and goes directly into the bloodstream. The beneficial effects of Vitamin B12 could be felt in a few days as a tremendous boost of energy and an increased feeling of well being.
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Facts
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Sublingual Vitamin B12 is a highly recommended supplement because it is so easily absorbed. The ease of absorption is especially effective for older adults whose digestive tracts ability to absorb Vitamin B12 usually is decreased. People with gastro-intestinal disorders like Crohn's disease and diabetics taking Metformin, as well as strict vegetarians who do not eat any animal products, would also benefit from taking sublingual Vitamin B12.
Vitamin B12 Deficiency
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Vitamin B12 deficiency is characterized by a general feeling of tiredness, fatigue and muscle weakness. Other signs are numbness due to nerve damages, heart palpitations and shortness of breath, along with gastro-intestinal problems including nausea, lack of appetite and diarrhea. Vitamin B12 deficiency can also cause pernicious anemia leading to memory loss, confusion and dementia.
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Benefits
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There are significant benefits of sublingual Vitamin B12 related to its absorption, its calming affect on the nervous system and its benefits to the heart. Vitamin B12 also reduces homocysteine (an amino acid found in blood). Vitamin B12 produces and maintains the myelin sheath that protects nerve cells. Another significant benefit of Vitamin B12 is its positive effect on people suffering from depression.
Safety
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The recommendations of The Institute of the National Academy of Science (INAS) regarding Dietary Reference Intakes (DRIs) for Vitamin B12 states that, "healthy individuals have not experienced any problematic side effects from daily supplements." INAS also advocates that adults 50 years and over should take sublingual B12 due to its ease of absorption.
Considerations
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Trying to get Vitamin B12 only from the food we eat is dependent on the intrinsic factor, a substance produced by the stomach. There may not be an adequate amount of intrinsic factor production in the stomach due to aging and some other medical problems. Taking Vitamin B12 sublingually is an effective route in getting it directly into the bloodstream. Sublingual Vitamin B12, unlike other water soluble vitamins (that are quickly excreted), is excreted slowly in the urine.
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