Vitamins - B12 - Optimal Absorption

There are several substances that destroy or limit absorption of vitamin B₁₂. They include most laxatives, tobacco, alcohol, caffeine, estrogen, prolonged use of sleeping pills, antibiotics, anticoagulants, and potassium supplements.

The following is a list of United States 1997-1998 Dietary Reference Intakes (DRI): Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDA) for nutritional vitamin B₁₂ intake and are included as a guideline only. Consult with your nutritionist, naturopath, or other health practitioner for a dosage appropriate for your needs. Children under 6 years of age should be under the supervision of the above mentioned specialists if directly supplementing with vitamin B₁₂.

 
If supplementing, take a B-complex vitamin with B₁₂ in liquid, capsule, or sublingual form.

Some people require B₁₂ injections to correct deficiencies. However, an editorial in the January 2, 1991 issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association debates this point. See your naturopath or other health practitioner for more information.